Vice President Kamala Harris announced her running mate at campaign rally in Philadelphia — Minnesota Governor Tim Walz.
To say the move came as a surprise might be a bit of an overstatement, as newspapers, political strategists and blogs alike spent weeks matching up who Harris would select. But it did put an end to weeks of speculation.
It was always predicted she would select a governor; someone with political experience, a man; to better secure her bid as the first woman in office, and someone who wasn’t affiliated with the West Coast.
That left out popular names like California’s Gavin Newsom or Gretchen Whitmer from Michigan. Many believed she would select Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro for the spot, a younger politician with more moderate to progressive ideals. Though he wasn’t selected, either because he wasn’t picked or because he did not want to run for VP and lose his governor seat, he made a convincing introduction in Philadelphia.
”Are you ready to do your part?” Shapiro said to a roaring crowd. “Are you ready to build an America, where no matter what you look like, where you come from, or who you love, that this will be a place for you? And are you ready to look to look the next candidate in the eye and say ‘hello Madam President?’
The two walked out to a loud and energetic crowd, spending the first few moments just taking it all in.
Harris introduced Walz as a husband and father, a teacher, a veteran, someone who grew up in the middle-class, and a politician who represents the everyday person.
”Since the day I announced my candidacy, I set out to find a partner who can help build this brighter future… Pennsylvania, I’m here today because I found such a leader,” Harris said.
Walz appeared to be humbled by Harris’s words, often reacting to random cheers and call outs to him in support.
“Harris praised Walz’s accomplishments and set him up for a lightning-fast campaign: He ‘really does shine a light on a brighter future that we can build together,’” from The Hill. “She offered his credentials to a crowd that roared in approval at times.”
Walz said this was the honor of a lifetime, and he was ready to hit the campaign trail running. It seems as if he’s brought a new energy to the Democratic party, something that has been much needed for them since this election cycle began.
”In Minnesota we respect our neighbors and the personal choices that they make,” Walz said. “Even if we wouldn’t make the same choice for ourselves, there’s a golden rule: Mind your own damn business.”
Republicans have dubbed Walz as a “radical liberal” and someone who has a far-left agenda. Though, Walz appears to be setting a name for himself, showing that he could go after Donald Trump and even made a couple jabs at JD Vance, saying “I can’t wait to debate the guy.”
From NPR: ”A fist-pumping Walz then displayed his ability to attack Trump, quipping that violent crime was up during Trump’s administration, then adding: “That’s not even counting the crimes he committed!”