Vice President Kamala Harris announces her running mate
UPDATE (2:35 PM): Vice President Kamala Harris shared a video on X to show the moment she asked Minnesota Governor Tim Walz to be her running mate.
In her post, Harris wrote that she has a "deep level of respect for [Walz]" and the work they've done together, also notting plans to unify the country and win the election.
UPDATE (1:36 PM): The Philadelphia rally where Vice President Kamala Harris and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz are making their first appearance is underway.
To watch the livestream of the rally, see attached video.
UPDATE (1:33 PM): Minnesota residents gathered outside Governor Tim Walz's temporary residence Tuesday to celebrate the news of the governor being selected as Kamala Harris' running mate.
The crowd of supporters share their excitment about their state playing a part in national politics.
"It's a very historic day. I have a lot of respect for Governor Walz, both locally, but also like his work in protecting marginalized groups, in ensuring freedoms for people both in this state and now it'll be great to see him do it on the national level."
Tucker Moore, Minnesota resident
"You know, there is a tradition of Minnesota VPs, and maybe, perhaps for the same reasons as Governor Walz, because they're, you know, wonderfully plain speaking, common sense folks."
David Hammel, Minnesota resident
UPDATE (1:17 PM): Political figures are responding to Vice President Kamala Harris' choice of running mate.
Among those praising Minnesota Governor Tim Walz of getting the job are some of the Democratic leaders who were also up for the position.
"Governor Walz will work with that middle class families to protect reproductive freedom. He will be an outstanding governing partner and running with Vice President Harris. People who know Tim Walz like him a lot, he understands what everyday people go through, he was a public school teacher. I'm very excited about this pick. I know that they will make a good team."
Gov. Roy Cooper (D-NC)
"I'm not sorry at all about the fact that we have a terrific Midwestern governor in Tim Walz, that's been chosen and I'm gonna go out and support him and the ticket and Kamala Harris every day. I think there are 90 days left as of today in the election and we have to beat Donald Trump."
Gov. JB Pritzker, (D-IL)
When asked how he felt about the decision, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, who was one of the three finalists on Harris' shortlist and will attend the rally in Philadelphia with Harris and Walz, said, "I'm feeling great. I will see you guys in Philly. Have a good night."
In addition, Arizona Senator Mark Kelly, who was another finalist on Harris' shortlist, posted on his X account saying, "Vice President @KamalaHarris and Governor @Tim_Walz are going to move us forward. They're already building a campaign to unite the country - and @GabbyGiffords and I are ready to do everything we can to help them win."
Below are some reactions from other political figures, including President Joe Biden:
The first major decision a party nominee makes is their choice for Vice President. And Kamala Harris has made a great decision in choosing Governor Tim Walz to be her running mate.
— Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) August 6, 2024
I've known Tim Walz for nearly two decades, first during his time in Congress and as Governor. A…
Like Vice President Harris, Governor @Tim_Walz believes that government works to serve us. Not just some of us, but all of us. That’s what makes him an outstanding governor, and that’s what will make him an even better vice president. Michelle and I couldn’t be happier for Tim… pic.twitter.com/s0RmVs7bGL
— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) August 6, 2024
Tim Walz is an exceptionally effective governor - and also great to work with. I’m excited for what his Midwestern voice, military experience, and common-sense values will bring to our winning ticket, and for everything the Harris-Walz administration will deliver for Americans.
— Pete Buttigieg (@PeteButtigieg) August 6, 2024
America’s political divide sharpens with the pick of Tim Walz for Dem VP. He called Trump supporters “fascist” and “weird,” and they in turn are calling him worse than that. The need for an independent President who stands outside the divide and can unify the country is more…
— Robert F. Kennedy Jr (@RobertKennedyJr) August 6, 2024
I'm thrilled to see Tim Walz join the Democratic ticket.
— Hillary Clinton (@HillaryClinton) August 6, 2024
From providing free meals for schoolkids to implementing paid family leave in Minnesota, he's about doing good in all the ways you can.
He'll be an incredible partner to our first woman president. Let's go win this. pic.twitter.com/gH32Xq1Nco
Tim Walz has walked the walk, and he’ll be a great vice president. My Statement on the Selection of Governor Tim Walz as Vice President Kamala Harris's Running Mate: pic.twitter.com/rwPploz7rT
— Bill Clinton (@BillClinton) August 6, 2024
Minnesota is known as the land of Vice Presidents, and we've got another great one on the way! As a veteran, a high school teacher and football coach, and our Minnesota Governor, Tim Walz has been an incredible leader (and on top of that, a good friend). Let's go win this! pic.twitter.com/hSptnURYrN
— Amy Klobuchar (@amyklobuchar) August 6, 2024
I'm so excited that my friend @Tim_Walz will be the next Vice President of the United States! As a fellow Midwesterner and governor, I know firsthand that his leadership is an important asset to this ticket. He’ll be an excellent partner for @KamalaHarris, and I’ll do everything…
— Gretchen Whitmer (@gretchenwhitmer) August 6, 2024
Democrats doubling down on the Progressive movement. Waltz is a win for open borders, socialism, and Iran.
— Nikki Haley (@NikkiHaley) August 6, 2024
.@Tim_Walz is a great asset to @KamalaHarris’ winning campaign & administration.
— Bernie Sanders (@BernieSanders) August 6, 2024
He is a former public school teacher, football coach, and strong union supporter.
As governor, he delivered for working families in MN. As VP, he will deliver for the working families of the US.
Vice President Harris made a terrific pick with Governor @Tim_Walz.
— Elizabeth Warren (@ewarren) August 6, 2024
As a former teacher, veteran, and one of the most effective governors in America, Walz has a strong track record of putting government on the side of working families.
I'm all in for Harris-Walz!
It was an honor to be considered in this process, but @Tim_Walz is a great friend and a great choice. I fully support this new ticket and will work to elect @KamalaHarris as our next President of the United States.
— Andy Beshear (@AndyBeshearKY) August 6, 2024
UPDATE (12:14 PM): Following the announcement, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz released a campaign video confirming his new role on the ticket as well as introducing himself to Americans.
(CNN, KYMA/KECY) - After formally securing the Democratic presidential nomination, Vice President Kamala Harris has officially decided on her running mate.
She has chosen Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, according to multiple sources close to the process.
The 60-year-old is an experienced progressive leader who could help shore up the Midwestern blue wall states, including Wisconsin and Michigan.
Walz, a former educator, is in his second term as governor.
According to his official biography, while in office, he has protected reproductive freedom, strengthened voting rights, and cut taxes for the middle class.
Walz previously served 12 years in Congress, representing a Conservative-leaning rural district.
A former high school teacher and football coach, Walz also served in the Army National Guard.
Harris and Walz are set to appear together in their first joint rally in Philadelphia later Tuesday, before visiting other battleground states this week.
