Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris has chosen Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her vice-presidential running mate in what is seen as a strategic move to bolster her appeal among rural, white voters. Sources familiar with the decision disclosed that an official announcement is expected on Tuesday morning.
Walz, a 60-year-old veteran of the US Army National Guard and former teacher, brings a wealth of experience and a progressive agenda to the ticket. Elected to the US House of Representatives in 2006 from a Republican-leaning district, Walz served for 12 years before becoming Minnesota’s governor in 2018. His tenure as governor has been marked by significant progressive achievements, including free school meals, climate change initiatives, tax cuts for the middle class, and expanded paid leave for Minnesota workers.
Despite his progressive stance, Walz has shown a conservative side while representing his rural district, defending agricultural interests and supporting gun rights. This duality makes him a unique asset for Harris, potentially helping her connect with rural voters who have largely supported her Republican rival, Donald Trump.
Harris, the daughter of immigrants from Jamaica and India, is banking on Walz’s popularity in the Midwest to secure votes in critical battleground states like Wisconsin and Michigan. These states are pivotal in the upcoming November 5 election. Harris chose Walz over Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, who was also considered a strong contender for the vice-presidential slot.
The selection of Walz is expected to energize Harris’s campaign. Since President Joe Biden ended his re-election campaign last month, Harris has raised significant funds and reinvigorated the Democratic base. Walz’s National Guard career and his relatable persona as a former high school football coach and creator of “Dad joke” videos are seen as qualities that will attract undecided voters.
The Harris campaign plans to introduce Walz at an event in Philadelphia on Tuesday evening. The team hopes that his military background and successful gubernatorial record will appeal to a broad spectrum of voters, including those disillusioned with Trump.
Walz’s rise to national prominence has been swift, aided by the high-profile nature of Harris’s vice-presidential selection process. He reportedly had the backing of influential former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who played a crucial role in persuading Biden to exit the race.
Facing Trump and his running mate, JD Vance, a fellow Midwesterner and military veteran, Harris and Walz are gearing up for a contentious election season. Walz has already begun his campaign efforts, often donning a camouflage baseball hat and T-shirt, and has not shied away from criticizing Trump and Vance, branding them as “weird” – a term that has gained traction among Harris supporters and on social media.
(With inputs from Reuters)
