The Tim Walz Gamble
Author: Greg Valliere
August 6, 2024
KAMALA HARRIS HAD A SAFE PICK FOR A RUNNING MATE — but she took a chance with the quirky, likable left-wing populist, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, 60, who comes from a state the Democrats were likely to win without him on the ticket.
We’re on vacation but had a chance to talk with some Democrats this morning who were ecstatic to have two populists on this fall’s ballot.
OUR REACTION IS — be careful what you wish for. In our opinion, Donald Trump and the Republicans will have an easier time winning close states such as Georgia, Arizona, North Carolina etc.
WE HAVE ARGUED ALL SUMMER that Arizona Senator Mark Kelly was the best bet. He has a superstar resume and is an astronaut and a highly decorated war hero.
BUT LIKE MANY PRESIDENTIAL ASPIRANTS, Harris went for compatibility — and Walz is an affable and savvy governor who is popular in the Midwest.
WILL WALZ AFFECT THE ELECTION? Doubtful; running mates rarely make much of a difference. Harris had a decent chance of capturing the White House three weeks ago, and she still does.
WE’RE CONTENT TO WAIT UNTIL AFTER LABOR DAY before making an election call. Harris probably hasn’t hurt herself but with two outspoken progressives running on the same ticket, they have given Trump an opening.
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