The text message from Rep. Angie Craig to Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz nine days before he was chosen as Vice President Kamala Harris’s running mate showed her praise and support for Walz. She jokingly mentioned that she had never lost an election with him at the top of the ballot, indicating her confidence in his abilities. Craig has been a strong advocate for Walz, citing his political prowess and ability to connect with people from various backgrounds and beliefs. Walz’s nomination as VP has raised optimism among Democrats in Minnesota and Nebraska, where he has roots and connections that could impact two crucial House races. Republicans in these districts have criticized Walz and attempted to tie Democratic candidates to negative messages about him, focusing on his response to the George Floyd protests in 2020.
In Minnesota’s 2nd District, Craig faces a tough re-election battle against Republican Joe Teirab, who has questioned Walz’s record and support for law enforcement. Teirab believes the unrest in Minneapolis in 2020 has made law enforcement a key issue for voters in battleground races, including in Minnesota. Despite the criticisms, Craig has received endorsements from law enforcement groups and other organizations, emphasizing her broad appeal and support in the district. In Nebraska’s 2nd Congressional District, where Walz campaigned in mid-August, the race between incumbent Republican Don Bacon and Democratic challenger Tony Vargas has also seen discussions about Walz’s influence and connections in the state.
Bacon, who has a history of electoral success in the district, is skeptical of Walz’s impact on the race in Nebraska, questioning his political shift to the left since becoming governor of Minnesota. Vargas, a former schoolteacher like Walz, believes that having a working-class individual like Walz on the ticket can appeal to voters in Nebraska. Both parties are claiming momentum in the House races in Minnesota and Nebraska, with millions of dollars in campaign spending and efforts focused on flipping the seats in favor of their respective parties. Walz’s addition to the presidential ticket following President Biden’s withdrawal has injected enthusiasm and energy into the Democratic campaign efforts, reflected in increased fundraising and support from volunteers and prospective voters.
Despite the initial enthusiasm among Democrats, Republicans remain confident in their messaging around important issues like the economy, border security, and crime, aiming to highlight Harris and Walz’s past positions and actions. Both parties are gearing up for a competitive election season in battleground districts like Minnesota’s 2nd District and Nebraska’s 2nd Congressional District. The impact of Walz’s nomination as VP and his connections in these states will be closely watched as the November elections approach, determining the balance of power in the House of Representatives. In a challenging political environment, candidates on both sides are working hard to gain the upper hand and secure victory in closely contested races.
