Harris and Walz Debut as Democratic Ticket at Philadelphia Rally
Tim Walz, emphasizing his rural background, criticized Donald Trump for wanting to take the US “backwards” during his first appearance as Kamala Harris’s running mate at a lively Democratic rally. Held in Philadelphia on Tuesday night, the Democratic vice-presidential nominee labeled their Republican opponents as “weird as hell.”
The Trump campaign responded, branding Mr. Walz, the current governor of Minnesota, as a “dangerously liberal extremist.” At 60, Mr. Walz is seen as a figure capable of regaining the support of rural and working-class voters in key Midwestern states who have shifted towards Trump.
Previously a football coach and teacher, Mr. Walz brings a relatable, down-to-earth persona to the ticket. Harris praised him as “a fighter for the middle class, a patriot” during the rally in Pennsylvania, a crucial swing state. She introduced him earlier in the day, noting their status as “underdogs” with growing momentum in the election.
Mr. Walz, speaking to an enthusiastic crowd in Philadelphia, contrasted his service background with Trump’s self-serving nature. “He doesn’t know the first thing about service – because he’s too busy serving himself,” said the former army sergeant. The crowd erupted in cheers as he echoed a popular attack line against their Republican rivals: “These guys are creepy and, yes, just weird as hell.”
He expressed eagerness to debate Republican vice-presidential nominee JD Vance, adding a jab about Vance’s willingness to participate. Mr. Walz’s plain-spoken style, which has earned him acclaim from Democrats, was on full display when he criticized Republicans on abortion rights, declaring, “Mind your own damn business!” to the delight of over 10,000 attendees at Temple University.
Harris and Walz have embarked on a five-day tour of key battleground states, culminating in their speeches at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago from August 19 to 22.
As Minnesota’s two-term governor, Mr. Walz has overseen significant legislative achievements, including ensuring abortion rights, passing gun control measures, and instituting paid family leave. Republicans have criticized his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and the delay in deploying the National Guard during the George Floyd protests in 2020.
On the same day in Philadelphia, Mr. Vance criticized the Democratic ticket, claiming Harris’s choice of Walz indicates her alignment with the most radical elements of her party. The Trump campaign echoed these sentiments, describing the Harris-Walz ticket as a “dangerously liberal extremist” duo.
President Joe Biden, who suspended his own campaign last month and endorsed Harris, stated that the new Democratic ticket would be “the strongest defenders of our personal freedoms and our democracy.” Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, another finalist for Harris’s running mate, also attended the rally. Despite facing criticism for his pro-Israel stance and handling of college protests, some Trump advisors were relieved that Harris did not choose him, fearing his potential to secure Pennsylvania.
Before becoming governor, Mr. Walz served 12 years representing a Republican-leaning district in Congress, the only Democrat to win that seat in 30 years. A Nebraska native, he grew up farming and hunting and served in the Army National Guard for 24 years. He also taught in China for a year and speaks some Mandarin. His wife, Gwen Whipple, a fellow teacher, drew him to Minnesota, where he continued teaching and coaching.
With his diverse background and relatable persona, Mr. Walz is positioned to help the Harris campaign appeal to a broader range of voters as they head towards November’s election.
