The US Democratic presidential Candidate Kamala Harris and her newly selected vice-presidential running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, took center stage in Philadelphia on Tuesday, marking the beginning of their multi-day tour through key battleground states.
The rally, which was held at Temple University, drew an enthusiastic crowd of over 10,000 supporters, eager to witness the debut of Walz on the national stage.
Walz, who brings a diverse background to the ticket, recounted his roots in a small Nebraska town, his 24 years of service in the Army National Guard, and his previous career as a high school social studies teacher and football coach.
In a passionate address, he credited his students with inspiring him to enter politics. He said “It was my students who encouraged me to run for office. They saw in me what I was hoping to instill in them: a commitment to the common good and a belief that one person can make a difference.”
The governor also launched a vigorous critique of the Republican presidential nominee, Donald Trump, and his running mate, Senator JD Vance.
Walz criticized Trump for his handling of the COVID-19 crisis, economic policies, and rising crime rates during his presidency.
He said “He mocks our laws, he sows chaos and division. That’s not even counting the crimes he committed.”
Harris, who has rapidly shifted the dynamics of the election since President Joe Biden’s unexpected withdrawal from the race, praised Walz’s multifaceted career.
“He’s the kind of person who makes people feel like they belong and then inspires them to dream big,” Harris said, highlighting Walz’s extensive experience as a husband, father, teacher, coach, veteran, congressman, and governor.
The choice of Walz, known for his executive experience and appeal to rural, white voters, marks a strategic move by Harris to strengthen her campaign. The Harris campaign has reported raising over $20 million following the announcement of Walz as the vice-presidential pick.
In his speech, Walz also addressed contentious issues, particularly focusing on Republican efforts to restrict women’s reproductive rights. “Even if we wouldn’t make the same choice for ourselves, there’s a golden rule: mind your own damn business!” he asserted, receiving a resounding ovation from the crowd.
Trump and Vance have swiftly responded to the new Democratic ticket. Trump labeled Harris and Walz as “the most Radical Left duo in American history,” while Vance criticized Walz’s handling of the 2020 protests in Minneapolis, suggesting that Walz was insufficiently forceful in addressing the unrest.
“The biggest problem with the Tim Walz pick is what it says about Kamala Harris; that she will bend the knee to the most radical elements of her party.”
As the campaign trail heats up, Pennsylvania, the site of their first rally, remains a crucial battleground in what promises to be a closely contested election.
Chioma Kalu
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