Kamala Harris taps Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as VP pick
12:13 PM EDT, August 6, 2024
CNN reported on Tuesday, citing sources close to Harris, that the almost certain Democratic Party candidate in the U.S. presidential election, Kamala Harris, has unofficially chosen Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her vice-presidential candidate.
The Associated Press reported that the decision is expected to be announced in the coming hours. Earlier on Tuesday, Reuters conveyed that Harris narrowed her choice to two politicians: Walz and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro.
Who is Tim Walz?
60-year-old Tim Walz is a former National Guard member and teacher. In recent weeks, the Minnesota governor has gained recognition among Democratic voters as a staunch supporter of Harris. Walz, a former congressional representative from a district where Republicans enjoy substantial support, has proven to be an attractive choice for rural white voters.
As governor, he has advocated for liberal policies. He strongly supports free school meals and expanded paid family leave, emphasized Reuters.
Although Minnesota is a state where the Democratic Party typically performs well, it is close to Wisconsin and Michigan, traditionally wary of Democrats.
Reuters previously noted that the choice of Walz could thus be a nod towards an electorate composed of undecided or moderately inclined individuals, potentially alienated by the unpredictability attributed to Republican candidate Donald Trump, American analysts and media have emphasized in recent days.
