Iowa Democrats support Tim Walz as Harris’ running mate

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa (KCRG) - After two weeks of speculation, Vice President Kamala Harris has announced her running mate for her 2024 White House bid.

Tim Walz is serving his second term as governor of Minnesota, and did a 12-year stint as a congressman. Previously, he served with the Army National Guard and was a teacher.

Linn County Democrats were surprised by Harris’ decision, but ultimately think Walz is a good pick.

“He’s got a great history in terms of being a teacher, being from a rural state,” Bret Nilles, Linn County Democrats Chair, said. “His military background, his experience in congress and now his experience as an executive really adds to what he brings to the table in terms of being a good selection for vice president.”

Walz also has the support from the state’s Democratic Party.

“Minnesota Governor Tim Walz is a great candidate for Vice President because he understands Midwest principles, how hard Iowans work, and the value of a dollar,” Rita Hart, Iowa Democratic Party Chair, said.

Iowa Senate Democrat Leader Pam Jochum also released a statement in support of Walz.

“Vice President Harris and Governor Walz embody the values that built this country and still beat in our hearts. They are champions for opportunity and freedom for all Americans. With thirteen weeks until Election Day, the Harris-Walz ticket will unite and energize voters across Iowa and the nation to turn out in November. They have a vision for a better future for all.”

Walz will be joining Harris at a rally in Philadelphia Tuesday evening.

The Iowa GOP also reacted to Harris’ pick in a statement:

“Kamala choosing radical Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz to be her nominee reinforces the fact that four more years of Kamala means four more years of the same dangerous policies that have proven over and over again to be detrimental to our country. Walz has welcomed leftist California policies into Minnesota: he destroyed their economy by wiping away their surplus, let the city burn from riots in 2020, and has allowed crime to skyrocket. Meanwhile, Kamala is a champion of Biden’s progressive agenda, and now her and Gov. Walz will take these policies even further. A Harris/Walz White House means wide open borders for terrorists and deadly drugs, the abolishment of private health insurance, a ban on fracking, reckless spending, and more crime in our cities. They are dangerous and irresponsible politicians who cannot be in charge of the United States of America.”