The Man Behind Kamala Harris: Who is Tim Walz, the Democratic VP Pick?
While Tim Walz may not be a household name in US politics, he's now a key figure in the upcoming presidential election as Vice President Kamala Harris's running mate. Having secured the Democratic nomination, Harris announced Walz as her choice, describing him as a "proud" selection.
"As a governor, a coach, a teacher, and a veteran, he's delivered for working families like his. It's great to have him on the team," Harris posted on X.
Walz, in turn, called the opportunity "the honour of a lifetime", adding, "I'm all in. It reminds me a bit of the first day of school. So, let's get this done, folks!"
Should Harris prevail over Republican nominee Donald Trump in the November election, Walz would be a heartbeat away from the presidency. While the vice president's official responsibilities are limited, they hold the potential to become the nation's leader and serve as a key partner in governing. Moreover, as a running mate, Walz will be a central figure in the campaign.
So, who is Tim Walz, and what are his views on the issues shaping the election?
Walz, 60, boasts a strong political resume, encompassing both executive and legislative experience. Elected Governor of Minnesota in 2018, he secured a second term in 2022, achieving resounding victories despite the state's traditionally moderate leanings. Before his gubernatorial tenure, Walz served 12 years in the US House of Representatives, representing a largely rural district in southern Minnesota.
Beyond politics, Walz is also a veteran, having served in the Army National Guard for 24 years after joining at the age of 17. Prior to his political career, he worked as a school teacher.
On policy, Walz has been praised by some progressives for his ability to advance left-leaning priorities in a swing state. During his tenure as Governor, he has approved initiatives like free college tuition for low-income students, universal free breakfast and lunch in public schools, legalisation of recreational marijuana for adults, and expanded worker protections.
Walz is also a vocal advocate for abortion rights and has championed numerous climate initiatives, including a law aiming to transition Minnesota to carbon-free electricity by 2040. While Republicans are likely to argue that Walz's policies are too liberal, the Governor has remained unwavering in his support for them.
When asked about the label of "big government liberal," Walz told CNN last month, "What a monster! Kids are eating and having full bellies so they can go learn, and women are making their own healthcare decisions, and we're a top five business state, and we also rank in the top three in happiness." He added, "If that's where they want to label me, I'm more than happy to take the label."
Jennifer Victor, a political science professor at George Mason University, described Walz as an "interesting choice", noting that he may be unfamiliar to many Americans. She believes Walz possesses a relatable "Midwestern vibe" and that Harris likely selected him for this appeal to swing voters.
Victor highlighted Walz's framing of Republicans as "weird" rather than a threat to democracy. "This was not a line of framing that we had seen Democrats successfully use against Republicans in the past, and Walz delivered it in a sort of personable, softer way that I think just resonated with more people," she said.
Beyond domestic policy, the US approach to the war in Gaza and escalating tensions in the Middle East are key issues in this election cycle. While Governors don't dictate foreign policy, Walz has expressed support for Israel and ordered flags to be flown at half-mast in solidarity with the US ally following Hamas's attack on October 7.
During his time in Congress, Walz also held pro-Israel positions. "Israel is our truest and closest ally in the region, with a commitment to values of personal freedoms and liberties, surrounded by a pretty tough neighbourhood," he stated in 2010.
However, in March, after nearly 19% of Democratic voters in Minnesota cast "uncommitted" votes in protest of President Joe Biden's unwavering support for Israel, Walz indicated that he understands the growing frustration with the US approach. He said that those who voted "uncommitted" have "every right" to be heard.
"These folks are asking for a change in course. They're asking for more pressure to be put on," Walz told MPR News at the time. "People are frustrated, but it bodes well for me that they're actively engaged to go out and cast his vote and ask for change," he concluded.
