It’s been a busy time in American politics since Kamala Harris replaced Joe Biden as the Democratic candidate. On Tuesday, Harris picked Tim Walz, Minnesota’s governor, as her vice-presidential nominee. Walz used to be a congressman, teacher, and army veteran. Other candidates for the VP spot included Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, and Arizona Senator Mark Kelly. The BBC asked Democratic voters for their opinions on Harris’s choice.
Kathryn Vaughn, 44, Tennessee
Vaughn, who grew up in a Republican family but now votes Democrat, likes Walz because he shares her background as a rural teacher and IVF parent. She thinks Walz will bring energy to the campaign and believes the Harris-Walz ticket will be very competitive against Trump and Vance. Vaughn is excited to see the VP candidates debate, highlighting the contrast between Walz’s rural roots and Vance’s quick departure from his rural background. She feels Walz could be a strong advocate for rural communities, mothers, children, and teachers, who have struggled under Trump’s policies.
Annie Tye, 43, Illinois
Tye initially wanted Mark Kelly as the VP but changed her mind after learning more about Walz. She’s excited because Walz brings a unique energy to the party and has a background many Americans can relate to. Tye appreciates Walz’s positive rating with the NRA and his work with kids, including facilitating a gay-straight alliance as a teacher. She believes Harris made a smart choice and predicts the Harris-Walz team will outperform the Republicans.
Isaac Chandler, 30, Oklahoma
Chandler thinks Walz is a great choice to strengthen Democratic support. He likes Walz’s progressive policies, including his support for unions, free school lunches, and peace in Gaza. Chandler finds Walz inspiring and likens him to a friendly grandpa, even though he’s around the same age as Harris. He feels the Harris-Walz ticket is more representative of the American public than Trump and Vance and is hopeful for the election.
Mary Mendenhall, 34, New York
Mendenhall was not very enthusiastic about voting for Biden and Harris but is now excited about the Harris-Walz ticket. She was surprised by the choice, thinking it would go to Shapiro, but believes Walz was the better pick. Though she doesn’t know much about him, she knows he’s been a good governor in Minnesota and supports progressive values. Mendenhall is cautiously optimistic and feels much more hopeful about the election with Walz on the ticket.
According to the BBC, voters generally feel that the Harris-Walz team brings new energy and hope to the Democratic campaign, offering a strong contrast to Trump and Vance.
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c36nnrlg3nyo