Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris has chosen Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate and they visited Philadelphia for their first rally together.
The rally took place Tuesday on the Temple University campus at the Liacouras Center.
“From the day I announced my candidacy, I have been looking for a partner who can help me build that brighter future,” Harris said alongside Walz in Philadelphia. “I am here today because I have found such a leader in Governor Tim Walz of the great state of Minnesota.”
“He’s the kind of person who makes people feel like they belong and then inspires them to dream big… He’s the kind of vice president America deserves,” Harris said.
Speaking after Harris, Walz rallied the crowd for the tough campaign ahead. “We have 91 days. My God, it’s easy. We’ll sleep when we’re dead,” he said.
The remarks reflect the urgency of the moment, as Harris chose Walz for the ticket during one of the most turbulent periods in modern American politics. Republicans rallied behind former President Donald Trump after he was the target of an assassination attempt in July. Days later, President Joe Biden ended his reelection campaign, forcing Harris to scramble to unite Democrats and choose a running mate during a frantic two weeks.
In selecting Walz, 60, Harris is highlighting a Midwestern governor, a military veteran and a union supporter who helped implement an ambitious Democratic agenda for his state, including sweeping protections for abortion rights and generous aid to families.
Harris hopes Walz will help solidify her campaign’s position in the upper Midwest, a crucial region in presidential politics that often serves as a buffer for Democrats running for the White House. The party remains haunted by Trump’s victories in Michigan and Wisconsin in 2016. Trump lost those states in 2020 but has focused on them as he seeks a presidential comeback this year and expands his reach into Minnesota.
Since Walz was announced, the team has raised more than $20 million through local donations, the campaign said.
Many Harris voters and supporters showed up early in the morning before the rally in downtown Philadelphia.
“A month ago, I would never have told you that I would be interested in a political event today. A month later, so many things are changing so quickly, so I’m really interested in hearing what they have to say, I want to hear their speeches,” said Caryn Solly of Trenton, New Jersey.
Several people shared their feelings about Harris choosing Walz as her running mate.
“I was a little surprised because part of me thought it was going to be Josh Shapiro,” said Anthonio Dawkins of southern New Jersey.
There has long been speculation that Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro might receive a call from the vice president.
Several people expressed their support for his choice.
“I was hoping Josh would be there, but I’m glad she made a choice, it’s a good choice, I think people will accept it and move forward with a strong ticket,” said Michael Robinson of Temple University.
“It’s very exciting to have a young progressive. I think we need someone who sees the nuances of modern politics and speaks to people of my generation,” said Mark Maddock of Illinois.
Harris announced Walz as her new running mate hours before Tuesday’s rally.
“From the day I announced my candidacy, I have been looking for a partner who can help me build that brighter future,” Harris said at her first rally with Walz in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on Tuesday. “I am here today because I have found such a leader in Governor Tim Walz of the great state of Minnesota.”
“I’m so excited to be on this journey with you and Doug, this incredible journey,” Walz told Harris, referring to her husband. “Thank you for the trust you’ve placed in me, and maybe more than that, thank you for giving me back my joy.”
Who is Tim Walz?
Here are five things you need to know about Minnesota Governor Tim Walz.
