Kamala Harris Chooses Ultimate Ally, Tim Walz, as Running Mate: 'We Are the Underdogs'

Kamala Harris introduced her running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, to a roaring crowd of 14,000 in Philadelphia on Tuesday. This pivotal move thrusts the outspoken, working-class ally into the national spotlight and adds a critical progressive perspective to Harris' fast-moving campaign for the presidency.

Harris acknowledged the challenges ahead, stating:

"It's been a whirlwind...We are the underdogs in this race, but we have the momentum, and I know exactly what we are up against.”

Of Walz, she proudly proclaimed:

“He's the kind of person who makes people feel like they belong, and then inspires them to dream big. And that's the kind of vice president he will be, and that's the kind of vice president America deserves.”

Walz, 60, wasted no time in taking on Trump and his running mate, Sen. J.D. Vance. He slammed their "dangerous and backward agenda," highlighting their shared commitment to spread misinformation and suppress the rights of Americans. In true progressive fashion, Walz called out the hypocrisy of their so-called "law and order" platform, noting the increase in violent crime during Trump's tenure, not to mention "the crimes he committed."

The Top Highlights From the Day:

Walz Accepts the VP Debate Challenge from Vance:

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz boldly accepted the debate challenge from his Republican opponent, Sen. J.D. Vance. Walz didn't hold back, stating:

“Like all regular people I grew up with in the heartland, J.D. studied at Yale, had his career funded by Silicon Valley billionaires, and then wrote a bestseller trashing that community... I can’t wait to debate the guy.”

Walz Calls Out Trump's Failed Record and Criminal Conviction:

In true proletariat fashion, Walz took on the elitist Trump and his deplorable record. He criticized Trump's inept response to COVID-19, highlighting his own two decades of service in the Army National Guard:

“First of all, [Trump] doesn't know the first thing about service. He doesn't have time for it because he's too busy serving himself... Make no mistake, violent crime was up under Donald Trump, and that's not even counting the crimes he committed,”

Walz Expresses Gratitude to Harris for Restoring Joy:

Gov. Tim Walz, a true man of the people, expressed his gratitude to be on the Democratic ticket with Harris:

“Thank you, Madam Vice President, for the trust you put in me but, maybe more so: Thank you for bringing back the joy.”

Harris and Walz: An 'Only-in-America' Pairing

Harris, the daughter of a working mother from Oakland, California, and Walz, who worked on a farm as a youth in Nebraska, form an 'only-in-America' duo. This diverse pairing had the crowd chanting "U-S-A!" as Harris proudly introduced her running mate as "Coach Walz."

Harris Introduces Walz as More Than a Governor:

Harris outlined Walz's impressive career as a governor, congressman, veteran, and former high school teacher. She highlighted his advocacy as a faculty advisor for a gay-straight alliance club and his pivotal role in passing legislation to protect abortion access.

Harris Acknowledges Their Underdog Status but Vows to Fight:

Harris acknowledged the challenges ahead but remained resolute:

“I stand before you today as the Democratic nominee... We need to move to the general election and win... We are the underdogs, but we have the momentum, and I know exactly what we are up against.”

Gov. Shapiro Vows to Work Tirelessly for the Harris-Walz Ticket:

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro delivered a passionate speech, pledging his unwavering support to get Harris and Walz to the White House:

“I’m going to be working my tail off to make sure we make Kamala Harris and Tim Walz the next leaders of the United States... Tim Walz, in his beautiful midwestern, plain-spoken way, he summed up JD Vance the best: He’s a weirdo.”

Shapiro Expresses His Love for Pennsylvania and Support for the Ticket:

Shapiro, who was also considered for Harris' running mate, received a warm welcome at the rally:

"I love you Philly! ... I love being your governor. You all fill my heart. And I love you so much... I will work hard to make sure Harris and Walz win in November."

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Obama Endorses Walz, Praising His Values and Integrity:

Former President Barack Obama endorsed Walz, stating that he has "the values and the integrity to make us proud." Obama highlighted Walz's ability to connect with people and his service in the National Guard and as a teacher.

AOC Praises the Harris-Walz Ticket as a Bold, Inclusive Choice:

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez celebrated Harris' decision, taking to X (formerly Twitter) to share her enthusiasm:

“Vice President Harris made an excellent decision in Gov. Walz... Together, they will govern effectively, inclusively, and boldly. They won't back down under tight odds."

Walz's Personal Journey: From Teacher to Governor to VP Nominee:

Walz, a former teacher, congressman, and current governor, brings a wealth of experience to the ticket. His ability to bridge the divide between progressive policies and conservative values will be crucial in swing states. Walz also has a strong track record of supporting key Democratic issues, including raising the minimum wage, protecting abortion rights, and advancing the Affordable Care Act.

Standing Strong in the Face of Criticism:

Critics of Harris' choice didn't hold back, with conservative political commentator Erick Erickson claiming that passing over Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, who is Jewish, for Walz was a sign of antisemitism in the Democratic Party. However, former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi defended Walz, stating that characterizing him as left is "unreal."

Walz's Strongest Asset: His Commitment to Women's Rights:

Walz's strongest asset is his unwavering support for women's rights. After the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, Minnesota was the first state to codify abortion rights, thanks to Walz's leadership. Additionally, Walz has shared his family's personal struggle to conceive and their use of IVF, showing his commitment to reproductive freedom.

A Progressive Powerhouse:

Walz has national experience, having served as co-chair of the president's Council of Governors and chair of the Democratic Governors Association. He also criticized his VP opponent, Vance, for his regressive abortion stance and faux small-town credentials.

A True Man of the People:

Walz, a veteran, teacher, and football coach, embodies the American dream. His working-class background and dedication to public service make him a powerful addition to the Harris ticket.