Harris Taps Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as Running Mate, Strengthening Midwest Appeal

Vice President Kamala Harris has chosen Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate, according to sources who spoke to The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity. This decision comes ahead of a formal announcement expected before a rally in Pennsylvania.

By selecting Walz, Harris partners with a Midwestern governor with a background in the military and strong union support. Walz has been instrumental in advancing a progressive Democratic agenda in Minnesota, notably expanding abortion rights and providing substantial aid to families.

Harris aims to solidify her position in the upper Midwest, a strategic region with significant electoral implications. The Democratic Party continues to remember Trump’s 2016 victories in Michigan and Wisconsin, despite his losses there in 2020. Trump, however, still targets these states, including Minnesota, for his comeback.

Walz, 60, enters the race during a volatile political landscape, promising an unpredictable campaign. The Republicans remain united around Trump after an assassination attempt he survived in July. Following President Joe Biden’s decision to end his re-election bid, Harris faces the challenge of rallying Democrats and choosing a suitable running mate swiftly.

Harris initially considered nearly a dozen candidates, focusing on white men before finalizing on Walz. Known for his low-key demeanor, Walz has demonstrated a strong commitment to Democratic values.

Walz, a vocal supporter of Harris, described the Republican rivals in a recent interview as “just weird.” This sentiment has resonated within the Democratic messaging and gained traction.

Originating from West Point, Nebraska, Walz started as a social studies teacher and football coach before venturing into politics. His military service spanned 24 years in the Army National Guard, reaching the rank of command sergeant major.

Walz’s political career began with a Congressional win in 2006, focusing on veteran issues. As Minnesota’s governor, he navigated a divided legislature to achieve progress until the COVID-19 pandemic strained bipartisan cooperation.

Walz’s reelection in 2022, amid a robust Democratic win, highlighted his policy achievements, including expansive abortion and trans-rights protections and economic benefits such as school meals and family leave programs. However, his tenure was not without controversy, notably the Feeding Our Future scandal involving pandemic-related fraud.

The George Floyd unrest and Walz’s response generated significant debate. Trump inaccurately claimed credit for deploying the National Guard, a decision actually made by Walz. This incident highlighted key criticisms from GOP legislators about Walz’s and local officials’ response times.

Nationally, Walz has been a prominent Biden-Harris advocate, with increasing media presence and a key role in Democratic strategy. Walz’s candidacy could help secure Minnesota’s electoral influence and strengthen Democratic prospects in the Midwest.

Minnesota has historically produced influential political figures, including Vice Presidents Hubert Humphrey and Walter Mondale, setting a notable precedent for Walz’s vice-presidential bid.