2024 US election Democratic vice presidential candidate Tim Walz

Tim Walz, 60, is the Democratic vice presidential candidate for the 2024 US election, running alongside Kamala Harris. Born on April 6, 1964, in West Point, Nebraska, Walz brings a long history of leadership in public service, education, and politics to the Harris campaign. He is set to face off against Republican vice presidential candidate JD Vance, Donald Trump’s running mate, in a debate scheduled for October 1, 2024.

Walz grew up in a middle-class family in Nebraska. His father was a public school administrator, and his mother was a community activist. He enlisted in the Army Guard at the age of 17, serving for 24 years and retiring as a Command Sergeant Major, the highest-ranking enlisted soldier to ever serve in Congress.

Walz earned a Bachelor of Science in social science education from Chadron State College in 1989. His teaching career took him to China, where he taught high school as part of a government-sanctioned program. Upon returning to the US, he became a high school teacher and football coach in Mankato, Minnesota, where he earned recognition for his commitment to students and community engagement.

In 2006, Walz entered politics by winning a seat in the US House of Representatives, representing Minnesota’s First Congressional District, a traditionally Republican-leaning area. He served six terms in Congress, focusing on issues affecting veterans, rural communities, and farmers. He held key positions on the Agriculture, Armed Services, and Veterans' Affairs committees and was recognised for his bipartisan approach and pragmatic leadership.

Walz successfully ran for governor of Minnesota in 2018 and was re-elected in 2022. As governor, he implemented several progressive policies, including free school meals for students, paid family leave, and an expanded child tax credit. Walz has been a vocal advocate for climate change initiatives, expanding renewable energy, and improving infrastructure in Minnesota.

His leadership has been credited with strengthening the state’s economy and advancing liberal policies. Walz’s ability to enact significant change earned him a national profile, positioning him as a key Democratic figure.

Walz is married to Gwen Walz, an educator who has worked in public, alternative, and migrant schools, as well as prison education programmes. They have two children, Hope and Gus, and reside in St Paul, Minnesota.

2024 VICE PRESIDENTIAL CAMPAIGN

Walz’s selection as Kamala Harris’s running mate underscores his growing influence in the Democratic Party.

His background as a teacher, veteran, and public servant contrasts sharply with JD Vance, Donald Trump’s running mate.

Walz’s campaign will likely focus on his experience in education, healthcare, and progressive policies that have benefited Minnesota’s working families.

The upcoming vice presidential debate on October 1 will be a key moment for Walz, offering him the chance to differentiate himself from Vance and present the Democratic platform to voters ahead of the November 5 election.