Vice President Kamala Harris has chosen Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate in the 2024 White House bid. Walz, a 60-year-old Democrat and military veteran, gained prominence with his plain-spoken television appearances following President Joe Biden’s decision not to seek a second term. Known for making Minnesota a stronghold of liberal policy, Walz has also made headlines for protecting fans purchasing tickets online for events like Taylor Swift concerts.
Walz hails from rural America, having been born in West Point, Nebraska, before moving to Mankato, Minnesota in the 1990s. His background includes teaching social studies and coaching football at Mankato West High School. With 24 years of service in the Army National Guard, Walz reached the rank of command sergeant major, demonstrating his dedication to public service and community engagement. Throughout his career, he has been able to connect with conservative voters, as evidenced by his upset victory in his first race for Congress in 2006.
While not from the crucial “blue wall” states of Wisconsin, Michigan, and Pennsylvania, Walz’s proximity to these states and ability to maintain Democratic control in Minnesota could make him a valuable asset to Harris’s ticket in the Midwest. Known for championing veterans’ issues and being a relatable figure through social media posts with his daughter, Walz has shown a down-to-earth side that resonates with voters. His experience with divided government as governor of Minnesota has prepared him to navigate challenging political landscapes and broker compromises for the benefit of all.
During his first term as governor, Walz faced a divided Legislature but managed to find common ground on key issues like education, health care, and infrastructure. Despite facing criticism from Republicans over his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and civil unrest following the murder of George Floyd, Walz was able to secure a second term and work with a Democrat-controlled Legislature to advance progressive policies. His ability to prioritize issues like education, health care, and social welfare programs while rejecting calls for tax cuts demonstrates his commitment to serving the needs of all Minnesotans.
Walz’s proficiency in sound-bite politics was evident in his characterization of former President Donald Trump and running mate JD Vance as “just weird,” a phrase that gained traction among Democrats. As chair of the Democratic Governors Association, Walz has been able to amplify key messages and themes that resonate with voters across the country. With his proven track record of connecting with voters, navigating divided government, and advancing progressive policies, Walz’s selection as Harris’s running mate signals a strong commitment to leadership and unity in the 2024 election.
