Minnesota governor's unique approach to politics catches Harris's attention

Minnesotaʼs down-to-earth governor **Tim Walz** becomes Kamala Harrisʼs pick for VP running mate. His straight-talking style and ability to win in Republican areas made him stand out from other candidates

November 5 2024 , 04:17 PM  •  1144 views

Minnesota governor's unique approach to politics catches Harris's attention

The political world got a shake-up when Tim Walz‚ Minnesotas straight-talking governor became Kamala Harrisʼs choice for running mate. Known for his no-nonsense approach Walz caught attention when he called Donald Trump just plain “weird“ (instead of using fancy political terms)

I see Donald Trump talking about the wonderful Hannibal Lecter or whatever weird thing he is on tonight ... That is weird behaviour. I dont think you call it anything else

Tim Walz to CNN

The 60-year old governor brings a mix of experiences — from his 20-plus years in the Army National Guard to teaching high-school social studies in small-town Mankato. His track record shows success in typically red districts which he won five times since mid-2000s

His policy wins include:
* Free school meals program
* Extended paid leave for workers
* LGBTQ protection laws
* Healthcare access improvements

On hot-button issues like the Israel-Palestine situation Walz takes a balanced stance: supporting Israel after 10/07 while speaking up for humanitarian aid in Gaza. His approach to the Middle-East crisis — calling for a two-state solution and showing understanding for pro-Palestinian concerns; seems to work well with different voter groups

The pick makes strategic sense: Minnesota borders key swing-state Wisconsin and sits close to Michigan. Walzʼs down-to-earth style might help with working-class voters in these areas. A self-described “Minnesota Lutheran“ (like 20% of his state) he brings Midwestern values that could appeal to rural communities

His family life reflects his regular-guy image: married to Gwen with two kids Hope and Gus. Even Bernie Sanders praised him saying hes “very impressed“ with Walzʼs understanding of working families needs