Ahead of the 2024 presidential election, Vice President and Democratic nominee Kamala Harris announced her much-anticipated running mate Tuesday. With rumors of Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly and Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro among the top candidates to join her on the ballot, it was the third contender, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, who is now set to join Harris.
Some analysts believe Walz’s presence will help to solidify Harris’ standing in the midwest states, as Walz hails from Nebraska and is now in his second term, serving as governor in Minnesota since 2019. Former President and Republican nominee Donald Trump has made a concerted effort to win over those states, particularly in his selection of Ohio Sen. JD Vance as his running mate.
Walz is a former teacher and a veteran of the National Guard who first entered politics in 2007. He served in the House of Representatives, representing Minnesota’s first congressional district until his election to governor in 2019.
The selection of Walz ends the speculation around Harris’ running mate. For a time, Shapiro seemed to have a particularly high chance at the position, being launched into the national spotlight in recent weeks. Shapiro faced criticism from some opponents, who cited his support of Israel in the war in Gaza and his public support of school vouchers as areas of concern.
Walz, meanwhile, garnered favor from Democrats, particularly progressive Democrats, due to his position on the legalization of marijuana and protections enacted for the LGBTQ community.
Harris and Walz are scheduled to visit Philadelphia on Tuesday for their first rally together, which will be held at Temple University’s Liacouras Center.
