Tim Walz, Kamala Harris, and the Evolution of the Democratic Party: A New Era of Inclusivity
The political landscape in the United States is undergoing a significant transformation, and at the heart of this change are figures like Tim Walz and Kamala Harris. Black women organizers in Chicago recognize the pivotal role of Tim Walz in a country still grappling with racial conflict. Walz, the governor of Minnesota, has been invited to speak at the Democratic National Convention, marking a historic moment in American politics. This event is particularly significant for black women delegates who see a white man like Walz supporting a black woman such as Kamala Harris. Coles, a delegate from Virginia, proudly supports both Harris and Walz, appreciating that Walz is not intimidated by Harris’s leadership. This dynamic duo represents a balance on the ticket, appealing to a broader spectrum of voters, including those who may have reservations about a woman of color in a high position.
Harris’s decision to consider only white men as running mates was seen as a strategic move to balance the ticket and appeal to white voters. The pairing of Harris and Walz is viewed as a significant step forward in addressing racial issues in the country. In interviews, black women attendees at the convention expressed their admiration for Walz’s working-class background and his efforts to support black communities. For instance, Walz established an office for missing and murdered black women and girls, a move that resonated deeply with many. Some attendees were also moved by Walz’s personal story about his struggles with infertility, which added a layer of relatability and empathy to his public persona.
Black women in politics, such as Democratic representative Jennifer McClellan, see this partnership as the next logical step in Walz’s career. A 21-year-old delegate from Tennessee, Dottie Ferreira, was particularly impressed by Walz’s speech at the black caucus meeting, viewing him as a staunch supporter of diversity and progress. This supportive role is reminiscent of Joe Biden’s partnership with Barack Obama and Tim Kaine’s role for Hillary Clinton. Walz is seen as playing a crucial supportive role to Harris’s historic candidacy, helping to ease the concerns of voters who may be hesitant about a woman of color in such a high position.
Melinda Perez, a convention attendee, believes that having a white man support Harris sends a strong message, especially in corporate America. Black women activists, such as Belenda Anderson, see Walz’s support as crucial in winning pivotal rust belt states in the election. Many black women worry that if Harris does not win in November, it may be difficult for another black woman to have a shot at the presidency in the future. Jotaka Eaddy, founder of the group Win with Black Women, which raised funds for Harris’s early campaign, sees Walz as a coalition builder and a supporter of Harris’s vision for inclusivity.
White men in the Democratic Party also recognize the significance of Walz’s role in helping Harris make history. Doug Jones, a former Democratic senator from Alabama, credits his success in winning his seat to the support of black women. Jones believes that Walz’s partnership with Harris can help change the minds of those who hold racist or misogynistic views about her. Many see Walz’s presence on the ticket as a reflection of the changing times and a recognition of the need for diversity and inclusivity in politics.
In August, Vice President Kamala Harris interviewed Tim Walz to be her running mate for the Democratic presidential ticket. When asked how he could help, Walz’s primary focus was on supporting Harris rather than seeking power for himself. In the weeks since, Walz has worked tirelessly to improve Harris’s image on the campaign trail. He has been praised by Democrats for his unwavering support of women and people of color, while also engaging in typically masculine activities like hunting and fixing cars. However, Republicans have criticized his military record, economic policies, and support for social movements.
Walz has even earned the nickname ‘Tampon Tim’ from Trump’s senior advisor, mocking a law he signed as governor requiring schools to provide menstrual products for all students. Despite the mockery, Walz’s support of women, especially a black woman, is seen as appealing to the political left during an election focused on abortion rights and a widening gender gap. He is praised for ‘doing masculinity the right way’ and playing a supportive role to Harris and the entire Democratic Party. Walz has been compared to the male backup singers in a 1950s soul group, while Harris is likened to the frontwoman.
During his acceptance speech at the Democratic Party’s nomination, Walz thanked Harris and praised her policies. Some historians warn that Walz’s unfettered support of Harris may need to be adjusted if she becomes the first woman in the White House. The role of Vice President also demands the ability to challenge the president if needed. Walz’s persona is often contrasted with his Republican rival for Vice President, Ohio Senator JD Vance, who has made controversial comments about childless Democrats. A poll in Pennsylvania showed that Harris supporters were more enthusiastic about the ticket after she chose Walz as her running mate.
Women consistently register and vote more than men, and Harris had a 15-point lead among likely female voters in swing states. Walz is seen as a return to a more traditional model of American masculinity, compared to the ‘hyper-performative’ masculinity of some Trump supporters. During a campaign event in Nevada, Walz praised Harris and then stepped aside, modeling behavior that is becoming more commonplace. Democratic Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers says Walz’s behavior will likely become increasingly common as the political landscape continues to evolve.
The selection of Tim Walz as Kamala Harris’s running mate has led some to believe that Democrats will automatically gain support from rural voters. This assumption seems logical given Walz’s background as a small-town football coach and his position as governor of a Midwestern state with a strong rural identity. Many rural advocates and writers feel represented by Walz’s selection. However, further examination reveals that these expectations may be overly simplistic and optimistic. Republican partisans have dominated rural politics for the past 40 years, and Walz faces the challenge of appealing to a nationally politicized rural voting bloc.
Walz’s positions are open to interpretation, but he has tried to reverse the trend by advocating for rural communities. The images commonly associated with Walz, such as his dad-joking and ‘Midwestern nice’ demeanor, do not accurately represent the issues important to rural voters. Studies have shown that rural residents feel marginalized and have a deep distrust in government. This politicized rural identity has set rural voters apart from urban and other conservative groups. A study of 7,500 rural voters revealed high levels of grievance and anxiety among rural residents across the country. Many rural residents believe their communities receive less government spending and that their children will not have a better future than their parents.
This sentiment is not unique to the Midwest. Walz’s performance in Minnesota, a primarily rural state, is a key factor in his appeal to rural voters. However, Walz’s support among rural voters has decreased since his last election in 2016. Other Democrats in the Midwest, like US senators Tammy Baldwin and Amy Klobuchar, have performed well among rural voters. Democrats may see Walz as a counterbalance to JD Vance, who presents himself as a spokesperson for rural America. A recent poll shows that Walz is slightly more popular among rural voters than Vance, but both are less popular than average.
President Donald Trump’s appeal to rural voters stems from his ability to tap into their discontent and align it with his political message, not from a personal connection to rural life. To truly appeal to rural voters, candidates must address their deeper issues of economic insecurity, cultural marginalization, and distrust in government, rather than relying on symbolism alone. Kamala Harris has chosen Tim Walz for a job that requires a delicate balance. Walz, a congressman and governor from Minnesota, has a political career that reflects the changes in the Democratic Party in rural states. Democrats no longer need to win rural areas outright but must prevent a blowout and win big in populated areas.
Walz includes a pitch to ‘old school’ and libertarian-minded Republicans in his speeches. He learned how to compromise without compromising his values as a representative of a ‘red district.’ Most swing-district Democrats are avoiding Harris, including five running for re-election in Trump-won districts. Walz has lost support in rural areas due to his policies during the pandemic and handling of rioting in Minneapolis. He has also shifted left to reflect the preferences of the increasingly urban and suburban Democratic base. The outcome of the election will show how much Walz is helping Harris. Harris can count on Walz not to make the same mistakes she did in trying to pressure Senator Manchin.
Walz’s experience highlights the changes within the Democratic Party and the need to win in both rural and urban areas. His partnership with Kamala Harris represents a new era of inclusivity and diversity in American politics. This dynamic duo is not just about balancing the ticket; it is about addressing the deeper issues that plague the nation. From racial conflict to economic insecurity, Walz and Harris are working together to create a more inclusive and equitable future for all Americans. Their journey is a testament to the evolving nature of the Democratic Party and the increasing recognition of the need for diversity and inclusivity in politics.