Who is Tim Walz, Kamala Harris’s running mate who calls Republicans weird

The moment has finally arrived, Kamala Harris has finalised her running mate. It is Tim Walz, the Minnesota Governor.

There were two names doing the rounds for the Democratic vice-presidential pick — Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz.

In Minnesota, Walz made his mark as a high school teacher and football coach in Mankato. His commitment to education was seen when he worked as the faculty adviser for the school’s inaugural gay-straight alliance chapter in 1999, showing his early support for LGBTQ+ rights.

Tim’s wife, Gwen Walz, who had earlier worked in public, alternative and migrant schools, as well as prisons, is also an educator. Together the couple have two children, Hope and Gus.

Walz is a Lutheran by religion, a group comprising 20% of the Minnesota population.

Walz’s political career began in earnest in 2006 when he won a seat in a Republican-leaning congressional district. He held this position until 2016, after which he ran for the seat of governor.

Walz successfully ran for governor in 2018 and again in 2022. Currently, he is also the chair of the Democratic Governors Association, further highlighting his leadership in the party.

Under Walz’s leadership, Minnesota has seen the implementation of many liberal policies. These include providing free school meals, paid family and medical leave, and increasing the child tax credit. His progressive approach has gained the support of various groups, including Senator Bernie Sanders.

EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATOR TIM WALZ CONNECTS WELL WITH VOTERS

Walz is also recognised as an effective communicator. Known for his pragmatic approach, he connects well with voters. His candid calling of Republicans as “weird” has even been adopted by Harris’ campaign, underscoring his impactful messaging.

One of Walz’s most appealing qualities is his authenticity and relatability. His background as a teacher and coach adds to it, and his experience in a traditionally Republican district is another feather in his hat.

Harris had met with Walz and other potential candidates to decide her running mate.

Moreover, Walz’s national profile has seen an upward rise, particularly due to his strong messaging against Republicans and his support for Harris.

His progressive policies, teaching career, relatable background, communication skills have made him the right pick to be Kamala Harris’s running mate.