On August 6, 2024, the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) celebrated the selection of Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as Vice President Kamala Harris's running mate. This choice signals a strategic move to secure key Midwestern swing states and bolster the Democratic ticket with progressive credentials.
Walz, known for his legislative achievements in Minnesota, including reproductive rights and gun control, joins Harris in what they are presenting as a campaign for the future of America. Their first rally together at Temple University in Philadelphia drew a massive crowd, with over 14,000 attendees and significant fundraising success, raising over $20 million from grassroots supporters on the day of the announcement.
Socialists Kamala and Tim Walz “America’s Dad” allowed & supported this ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/B7A19jS035
— TheMajor’s wife❤️🤍💙 (@minnie5Gbwu) August 6, 2024
The selection of Walz is seen by many as an effort to balance Harris's coastal liberal background with Walz's Midwestern, working-class appeal.
Whether the two groups can come together in the coming election is however a very big question as the Democratic Party has of late moved away from “the working class” and “working class” values.
Jew hating socialists praising the Walz pick. Great job, Kamala.
It truly is a race to the bottom of pure stupidity. https://t.co/FV8nzedmQt
— Tyler (@TM0s41) August 7, 2024
During the rally, Walz emphasized his small-town roots and military service, while also criticizing former President Donald Trump and Senator JD Vance. His plainspoken, Midwestern manner has been praised for its ability to connect with voters, and he demonstrated this by joining the crowd in chants and engaging energetically throughout the event.
Walz's addition to the ticket has been met with mixed reactions. Democratic leaders have praised the move, with figures like DNC Chair Jaime Harrison and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro expressing support.
However,many have labeled the ticket as a shift to the far left, with some seeing it as a capitulation to socialist influences within the Democratic Party.
This selection is part of a broader strategy by the Harris campaign to appeal to both “progressive” and working-class voters, aiming to unify various factions within the Democratic base. As the campaign moves forward, the Harris-Walz ticket will continue to push their message of progressive change and economic stability, hoping to sway voters in critical battleground states come November.
