Walz Accepts VP Nomination, Showcases Ties to Everyday Americans
Dominic Calabrese is reporting on and sharing his observations with CommPRO from the DNC 2024 in Chicago.
Celebrating his connections to ordinary Americans as a high school teacher and coach, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz formally accepted the vice presidential nomination at last night's DNC.
In his remarks, Walz, who also served in Congress and had a 24 year stint in the Army National Guard, thanked Vice President Harris for selecting him as her running mate and President Biden for compiling an exemplary record on behalf of the American people.
He then picked up on the recurring themes of joy and freedom that have been staples at the convention.
Appearing on stage with were several members of the champion high school football team he once coached, Walz saluted his ex players for bringing the "joy of victory."
Next, the governor praised his fellow Democrats for their commitment to protecting freedom.
"In Minnesota, we respect our neighbors and the decisions they make," he said. "Even if we disagree, we've got a golden rule: Mind your own damn business."
He went on to offer a forceful defense of Democratic positions on abortion rights, sensible gun control and homeownership.
Walz's affable and folksy style has often labeled him the "happy warrior," an epitaph once ascribed to another Minnesotan, Hubert Humphrey, who ironically accepted the Democratic presidential nomination in Chicago back in 1968.
The governor further showed his empathy for many Americans and the challenges they cope with by discussing the fertility struggles he and his wife, Gwen, faced.
He then singled out his family for recognition.
"Hope, Gus and Gwen, you are my entire world and I love you."
The speech, which was greeted by enthusiastic applause from delegates, not only was designed to introduce the Nebraska-born Walz to Americans but point out his relatability to rural and heartland voters who have supported former President Donald Trump in recent years.
The newly minted Harris-Walz team received high accolades from an array of powerhouse speakers Wednesday night, including former President Bill Clinton, former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro and Oprah Winfrey who made a surprise, last minute appearance.
Clinton drew comparisons with the joyful theme to the "Kid from Hope" (Arkansas) moniker he earned as a presidential candidate in 1992.
He emphasized that should they win, Harris and Walz would spend every moment of their administration on helping working and middle class Americans.
The nation's 42nd president noted that Harris previously worked at McDonald's to support herself and would ask customers, "how can I help you?"
He maintained that when she becomes president, Harris will ask Americans, "how can I help you?"
The vice president also received endorsements from more Republicans who addressed the convention.
"Any Republican who is voting for Vice President Harris isn't a Democrat. They are a patriot," said former Georgia Lt. Gov. Geoff Duncan.
