According to US election researchers, the role of the Vice President in the election campaign has always been considered to have little impact on the final result. But the “running mate” and his presidential candidate are still seen as a team. That has to work – and so far it has. In their campaign videos and appearances, Harris and Walz seem like a well-rehearsed team for years. Regardless of whether they are talking about the right filling for Mexican tacos or about Trump’s political agenda. Both laugh a lot.
Tim Walz also laughed on stage in Chicago. But he was also serious. Because the most important task they have together is not just to convince their own, secure voters. He and Harris must manage to win over swing voters. Addressing poorer families, he said: “Kamala Harris will lower your taxes and if you are under pressure from the price of prescription drugs, Kamala Harris will take on the pharmaceutical industry.” Harris would also make buying a home more affordable, Walz promised.
He was literally aiming at the heart of the American nation, the “heartland” – that rural part of America that is often overlooked on the liberal coasts. “I’m a veteran, I’m a hunter and I was a better shot than most Republicans in Congress, and I have the trophies to prove it,” said passionate gun owner Tim Walz. But he is also a father. He believes in the Second Amendment, the explicit right to bear arms in the USA. “But,” said Walz, “I also believe that our first responsibility is to protect our children.”
Tim Walz was once again the family man who can speak to the feelings and realities of every American family – even in rural areas. This may be why Walz largely avoided direct and personal attacks against Trump. The governor from Minnesota wanted to prove that he could also be a democratic alternative for Republican voters. Whether he will succeed remains to be seen.
It is crucial that this message is also received in the swing states that are crucial to the election. Then Walz could also manage to convince those who are rather suspicious of Kamala Harris.
