(The Center Square) – Just hours after Vice President Kamala Harris announced on social media that Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz would be her running mate, reactions from Midwest politicians were strong, though not all were positive.
Michigan’s Democratic Party quickly backed Walz, a choice that surprised many analysts.
“As a son of the Midwest, veteran, and former teacher, Gov. Walz understands that at the end of the day, we all want the same things,” said Chairwoman Lavora Barnes.
“Here in Michigan, we take great pride in supporting Democrats who know how to deliver results for Americans. Vice President Harris and Gov.
Walz’s records speak for themselves, and they are more than ready to take on Donald Trump and J.D. Vance this November.”
Michigan Democrat Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, who was once considered a possible VP candidate, shared her excitement on social media.
“I’m thrilled 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 I can to get them elected this November,” Whitmer promised.
According to the source, U.S. Rep. Elissa Slotkin also praised the choice, highlighting Walz’s Midwestern roots.
“Congratulations to @Tim_Walz for your selection as the Democratic vice presidential nominee! A teacher, veteran, Governor, and, perhaps most importantly, Midwesterner, Governor Walz is a great addition to the ticket,” Slotkin said.
However, not all reactions were positive. Former Rep. Mike Rogers, who is running against Slotkin for Michigan’s open U.S. Senate seat, criticized Walz’s record as governor, arguing it would harm Midwestern voters.
“Tim Walz is too radical for Michigan working families. Walz signed legislation to give driver’s licenses to illegal immigrants, oversaw the burning of Minneapolis, and led an explosion of murders (+73%), assaults (+49%), and car thefts (+55%),” Rogers argued.
Michigan Republican Rep. Tim Walberg agreed, labeling Walz as too extreme.
“Having served with Tim Walz, he holds many radical left-wing views incompatible with most of America. Make no mistake: the Harris-Walz ticket is officially the most radical ticket in history,” Walberg posted on social media.
Wisconsin leaders reacted similarly, with Democrats emphasizing Walz’s Midwestern appeal and Republicans attacking his liberal policies.
The Democratic Party of Wisconsin expressed their confidence in the Harris-Walz ticket leading them to victory.
“Tim Walz is a proven Midwestern leader who fights every day to deliver affordable health care, quality education, and economic opportunity for working Minnesota families. As Kamala Harris’ Vice President, he will fight for all American families,” said Chairman Ben Wikler.
“Wisconsin Democrats are thrilled to stand with Kamala Harris and Tim Walz in our shared fight to build an economy that works for working people, restore and expand reproductive freedom, and safeguard our democracy.”
Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers also praised Walz’s record.
“Vice President Kamala Harris picked a good one in my colleague and good friend across the river, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz.
As former educators, Tim and I believe in doing what’s best for kids, leading with kindness, empathy, and respect, and working hard to get good things done for the people we serve.
Those are exactly the kind of Midwestern values and qualities that will make Tim a great Vice President,” Evers said.
U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin echoed this sentiment, celebrating Walz’s service record.
“I had the honor of serving with @Tim_Walz in Congress. As a veteran, a teacher, and a true public servant he will make a great Vice President,” Baldwin shared on social media.
“The path to the White House and the Senate majority runs through the Midwest, and I’m glad to see our party focusing on our region!”
On the other hand, Wisconsin Republicans were quick to condemn Walz, especially his handling of the 2020 Black Lives Matter riots and his stance on illegal immigration.
“Historically inept, Walz ignored warnings from public officials about the threat of rioting in major cities during the summer of 2020. As Walz dawdled, Minneapolis burned.
When asked how he would secure the southern border, Walz took the opportunity to encourage more illegal crossings by suggesting migrants be provided ladders to scale border fencing and barriers,” said Wisconsin GOP Chairman Brian Schimming.
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“The Democratic Party and Kamala Harris have cast aside common sense to placate their extremist wing. Americans are tired of failure, but that is all Democrats have left to offer.
Come November, Wisconsin Republicans will lead the way in bringing an end to their disastrous chaos by returning President Donald Trump and JD Vance to the White House.”