Harris Selects Minnesota Governor Tim Walz As Her Vice Presidential Candidate

Vice President Kamala Harris has announced her selection of Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate on August 6, bringing an end to weeks of speculation regarding her choice for the Democratic ticket, according to The Associated Press.

Last week, Harris had stated that she would unveil her vice presidential candidate during a campaign event in Philadelphia on August 6. This announcement marks the beginning of a four-day campaign tour of battleground states, with Harris and Walz scheduled to visit Pennsylvania, Michigan, Wisconsin, North Carolina, Georgia, Arizona, and Nevada.

Tim Walz, aged 60, was a former member of the Army National Guard, serving for 24 years, before transitioning into a career as a high school teacher in Mankato. In 2006, he won a congressional seat from Minnesota’s first district, defeating the Republican incumbent Gil Gutknecht. Walz went on to secure re-election for five additional terms.

Walz holds the distinction of being the highest-ranking enlisted soldier to serve in Congress and was recognized as the 7th most bipartisan representative in the 114th Congress by the Lugar Center at Georgetown University.

In 2018, Walz emerged victorious in the gubernatorial race against Republican Hennepin County Commissioner Jeff Johnson, becoming the 41st governor of Minnesota. During his tenure, Walz has taken strides to implement initiatives like providing universal free school meals to students, aiming for Minnesota to achieve 100 percent clean electricity by 2040, and expanding paid leave for workers.

The governor has further demonstrated his commitment to road safety by signing a hands-free driving bill into law. This legislation effectively prohibits the use of cell phones while driving, thereby reducing distractions and enhancing safety. Additionally, Walz has worked towards the preservation of Minnesota’s Health Care Access Fund and enacted tax reductions for seniors and small businesses.

According to strategist Brian Darling, while Walz does not hail from a swing state, he appeals to swing state voters. Minnesota, historically a staunch Democrat state, has not voted for a Republican candidate in 52 years.

Walz’s selection as Harris’s running mate was also supported by around 50 progressive leaders who advocated against the inclusion of Shapiro on the ticket. Walz has garnered popularity among Midwestern and union voters, with his military background often highlighted.

Other notable candidates who were on the vice presidential shortlist include Senator Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Governor Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania, Governor Andy Beshear of Kentucky, and Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg.