In a surprise move, US Vice President Kamala Harris has selected Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate for the November Presidential election.
Walz, 60, emerged as a dark horse contender, edging out high-profile names like Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and Arizona Senator Mark Kelly.
Walz’s profile rose significantly over the last week, particularly after a viral interview where he called some Republicans “weird”, a line of attack later adopted by national Democrats.
His liberal credentials and lack of controversy made him a safer choice for Harris, especially as other contenders faced criticism from the left. Shapiro, for instance, faced scrutiny over his response to pro-Palestinian protests following the Israel-Hamas war, drawing ire from union leaders.
Walz’s Midwestern roots also make him an attractive choice, as Trump has been targeting Minnesota in his campaign efforts. Although Biden won the state by seven points in 2020, and no Republican has won there in over 50 years, Trump and his running mate JD Vance have intensified their campaigning in the state.
With Walz by her side, Harris is now poised to face off against Republican Donald Trump.