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The episode begins with the breaking news that Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has been chosen as Kamala Harris's running mate for the 2024 Democratic presidential ticket. Political reporters and analysts provide insights into Walz's background, qualifications, and potential impact on the campaign.
Various guests, including Senator Tina Smith, DFL Party Chair Ken Martin, and former Governor Tim Pawlenty, share their reactions and perspectives on the selection of Walz. They discuss the potential strengths and weaknesses of the Harris-Walz ticket, as well as the broader implications for the Democratic Party and the election.
The episode also delves into the vetting process for vice presidential candidates, the challenges Walz might face on the national stage, and the contrast he brings to the ticket as a Midwestern progressive with rural roots. Reporters provide live updates from East Cliff, where Walz is staying, and from Philadelphia, the site of the campaign's first rally.
Key Episodes Takeaways
- Minnesota Governor Tim Walz was selected as Kamala Harris's running mate for the 2024 Democratic presidential ticket, surprising many and adding a Midwestern progressive voice to the campaign.
- Walz's background as a former teacher, National Guard veteran, and congressman from a rural district is seen as an asset in appealing to a broad range of voters, particularly in the Midwest.
- The selection of Walz is viewed as a strategic move to energize the Democratic base while also reaching out to moderate and independent voters with his folksy demeanor and "regular guy" persona.
- Walz's progressive record as governor, including policies on abortion rights, LGBTQ+ protections, and worker benefits, is expected to be scrutinized and potentially attacked by Republicans.
- The Harris-Walz ticket aims to present a contrast to the Trump-Vance Republican ticket, with Walz positioning himself as an authentic voice for rural and working-class Americans.
- The announcement sets off a cascade of changes in Minnesota state government, with Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan potentially becoming the first Native American woman governor in the nation.
- Walz's selection was celebrated by many in Minnesota, but also faced criticism from Republicans who view him as too progressive and out of touch with rural and small-town America.
- The campaign trail ahead will be a test for Walz, as he transitions from a regional to a national stage and faces intense scrutiny over his record and ability to resonate with voters across the country.
Top Episodes Quotes
“Let's make it happen. Let's go, Minnesota.“ by Tim Walz
― This quote encapsulates Walz's energetic and passionate approach to campaigning, capturing his enthusiasm and determination to connect with voters.“I have deep respect for his candidacy.“ by Melisa Franzen
― This quote from Melisa Franzen, who ran against Walz for the DFL gubernatorial endorsement in 2018, highlights the respect and admiration Walz commands among his political peers and opponents.“The reality is there's not much difference between Governor Walz, Governor Shapiro and others that were considered on this issue of what's happening in the Mideast right now.“ by Ken Martin
― This quote from DFL Party Chair Ken Martin addresses concerns about Walz's stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which was a contentious issue during the vetting process, and suggests that his position is not significantly different from other candidates.“I think the message, again, is both with Kamala Harris as vice president, as a partner with President Joe Biden, and the consequential legislation they passed, record low on unemployment, real job growth, you know, a country that, you know, is heading in the right direction so much, you know, from the Chips act, which is bringing manufacturing jobs back to this country, to the pact act, which is taking care of our veterans, to the Inflation Reduction act, which is the largest investment in fighting climate in the world, to the infrastructure bill, which has created millions of jobs and, you know, is helping to build critical infrastructure projects all over this country right now. There's a great record of success that our vice president gets to talk about.“ by Ken Martin
― This quote from Ken Martin outlines the key policy achievements and economic successes that the Harris-Biden administration can campaign on, highlighting the potential strengths of their record.
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Episode Information
Politics Friday
Minnesota Public Radio
8/6/24
Tim Walz, the second-term Minnesota governor with a folksy demeanor and a swath of experience both in and out of government, gained a spot on the Democratic ticket as Kamala Harris’ vice presidential choice.
Supporters of Gov. Walz say the ex-Army National Guard leader, former teacher and past congressman could help Harris in the Midwest. But he also comes with baggage from nearly two decades in political office.
Listen to special coverage live from MPR News with host Cathy Wurzer and political editor Brian Bakst.
Clifford Bentley served as technical director for this special coverage.
Find more coverage on the MPR News website.
Kamala Harris taps Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as Democratic running mate
Gov. Tim Walz is Kamala Harris’ running mate. What happens now in Minnesota politics?
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