In a significant move for the 2024 presidential race, Kamala Harris, the presumptive Democratic nominee, has chosen Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate. The announcement was made on August 6, ahead of their joint appearance as the official candidates for the Democratic ticket.
Kamala Harris told Tim Walz
“I am thrilled to announce that I’ve asked Tim Walz to join me as my running mate,” Harris stated in a social media post. “His track record as a governor, coach, teacher, and veteran shows his dedication to working families. I’m excited to have him on board.”
Tim Walz: A Proven Leader
Tim Walz, 60, has a diverse background that includes serving as an Army National Guard veteran and a high school teacher before entering politics. Walz was elected to Congress in 2007 and served six terms, becoming the highest-ranking enlisted soldier in U.S. Congress history. His bipartisan efforts earned him recognition, being rated as one of the most bipartisan representatives by the Lugar Center at Georgetown University.
As Minnesota’s governor, Walz has championed several progressive initiatives. He implemented a plan for universal free school meals and set an ambitious goal for the state to achieve 100 percent clean electricity by 2040. Walz also expanded paid leave for workers, preserved the state’s Health Care Access Fund, and lowered taxes for seniors and small businesses.
“It’s an honor to join Kamala Harris in this campaign,” Walz shared on social media. “Her vision for what’s possible in politics is inspiring. This reminds me of the excitement of the first day of school.”
The official campaign website emphasizes Walz’s extensive experience and leadership, branding him as “a champion for America’s working families.”
The Selection Process
Harris’s decision followed a meticulous vetting process, considering several prominent figures, including Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Senator Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro.
The Harris-Walz campaign will commence with a rally on August 6 in Philadelphia, kicking off a major campaign tour. Over five days, they plan to visit key battleground states, including Wisconsin, Michigan, North Carolina, Georgia, Arizona, and Nevada.
Harris recently secured the Democratic nomination after receiving a majority of delegate votes, as confirmed by the Democratic National Committee (DNC).
“Just one day into voting, the vice president crossed the majority threshold and will officially be our nominee next week. This is outstanding,” DNC Chair Jaime Harrison announced during a livestream.
Harris and Walz will participate in a ceremonial vote at the DNC convention in Chicago, beginning on August 19. Walz will address the convention on August 21, followed by Harris on August 22.
Endorsements and Future Plans
Following President Joe Biden’s withdrawal from the 2024 race, he endorsed Harris. Biden confirmed discussing the VP selection process with Harris but refrained from detailing the qualities she sought in a running mate.
“I’ll let her work that out,” Biden said as he departed for Wilmington, Delaware.
On the Republican side, former President Donald Trump has selected Ohio Senator JD Vance as his running mate. Trump has scheduled a rally on August 9 and a speech at a dinner in Montana, followed by a fundraiser in Colorado on August 10.
While both Trump and Harris have shown interest in debating each other, no date has been set. A second debate, originally planned for September 10 by ABC, remains uncertain after Biden’s exit. Harris has committed to attending the debate regardless of Trump’s participation.
Should Walz resign as governor to focus on the campaign, Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan would assume the role, making history as Minnesota’s first female governor.
