Vice President Kamala Harris is considering her choice for a running mate. Among the potential candidates, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz is emerging as a leading contender.
This decision could significantly alter the 2024 presidential race.
With former President Donald Trump having chosen Ohio Senator JD Vance as his vice-presidential pick, Republicans were optimistic.
They believed Vance’s Midwestern roots and working-class background would give them an edge over the Biden-Harris ticket.
However, Harris, now the presumptive Democratic nominee, is weighing her options. One of her top picks is Walz, a two-term governor and former congressman.
Many Democrats view him as a strong communicator who could resonate with rural and working-class voters who have recently shifted away from the party.
If Harris selects Walz, it could indicate a strategic focus on crucial battleground states like Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin.
This move might put Vance on the defensive in these Midwestern areas, a situation the GOP didn’t anticipate.
Walz’s Campaign Against Vance
Since Biden’s exit from the race, Walz has been vocal against Vance.
On “Morning Joe,” he criticized Vance’s understanding of small-town America, reflecting on his own experiences growing up in a small Nebraska town.
Walz described Vance and Trump as “robber barons” who have negatively impacted the Midwest.
Walz has also criticized the GOP on various issues, including abortion, book bans, and education funding.
His attacks have portrayed Vance as out of touch and have energized many Democrats looking for a candidate who can connect with union workers and address healthcare costs effectively.
Changing the Political Landscape
Biden’s campaign was struggling in key states like Michigan and Pennsylvania and was only somewhat competitive in Wisconsin.
According to the source, the GOP had momentum, but Harris’ candidacy offered new opportunities for Democrats.
Her appeal to younger and minority voters could help in Sun Belt states such as Arizona, Georgia, Nevada, and North Carolina.
A Walz selection could neutralize what was perceived as Vance’s advantage in the Midwest.
Walz’s presence on the Democratic ticket could force Vance to campaign harder in Midwestern areas that were previously considered secure for Republicans.
Additionally, it could limit Vance’s ability to focus on suburban regions where Trump struggled.
Vance’s Popularity Issues
Another challenge for Vance is his low national approval ratings. Despite winning his Senate race in 2022, his margin of victory was narrow compared to other Republicans.
According to a July CNN survey, Vance had a 28% favorability rating and a 44% unfavorable rating among voters in key Midwestern states.
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This negative perception could undermine Republican efforts in these crucial areas.
If Walz were chosen as Harris’ running mate and improved her standing in the Midwest, it could turn the race in favor of the Democrats.
This outcome would be contrary to what Republicans anticipated, potentially reshaping the race dynamics.