Analysing Tim Walz's Progressive Credentials

A friend recently suggested that Tim Walz isn't as much of a Liberal Progressive as I had initially thought. This prompted me to delve deeper into his political ideology and actions.

What Tim Walz's Selection Reveals About Kamala Harris

The Wall Street Journal recently discussed the implications of Kamala Harris choosing Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her Vice President. Donald Trump's decision to select a running mate who appealed to his base rather than swing voters was seen as a favor to Democrats. Harris seems to have reciprocated this favor by choosing Walz, a favorite among progressives. The Republicans were more concerned about the possibility of Harris choosing Josh Shapiro, the popular Governor of Pennsylvania, a swing state critical to Electoral College victory. Shapiro, who is Jewish, faced a significant backlash from the Democratic left due to his pro-Israel stance and his support for school vouchers, which upset unions. Harris appears to have capitulated to this pressure, possibly to avoid protests at the Democratic convention in Chicago. As a result, she chose Walz, effectively eliminating Trump's chances of winning the swing state of Minnesota. This state, known for its liberal population, has consistently voted Democratic in every presidential election since 1976. Walz's progressive credentials are likely to please Senator Bernie Sanders and teachers unions. However, his governance record could provide ammunition for Trump's campaign. His selection also raises questions about Harris's ability or willingness to defy her party's left.

Walz's Record

Walz's actions as governor include: - Increasing taxes in Minnesota, which already has the fifth-highest top income-tax rate among the states, at 9.85% for single filers earning $193,000 or more. Walz added a 1% surtax on net investment income above $1 million and reduced deductions. - Making approximately 81,000 undocumented immigrants in the state eligible for driver’s licenses and health insurance through the MinnesotaCare public marketplace. - Funding the North Star Promise Program, which provides free college for students from families earning under $80,000, including undocumented immigrants. - Creating a state system for paid family and medical leave, funded by a 0.88% payroll tax. - Mandating that public utilities generate 80% carbon-free electricity by 2030, increasing to 100% by 2040. - Subsidizing electric vehicles and requiring EV charging infrastructure in new commercial and multi-family buildings. - Passing one of the nation’s most permissive abortion laws, with no age restrictions for minors. - Declaring Minnesota a “trans refuge,” with a law stating that the state will ignore court orders from other states for child removal if the child’s parent or guardian has assisted the child in receiving gender-affirming care in Minnesota. - Establishing automatic voter registration and allowing Minnesotans to sign up for a permanent absentee ballot option. In addition, Walz signed a bill requiring schools to provide tampons in boys' bathrooms. If these actions don't indicate a strong alignment with the radical progressive wing of the Democratic party, it's hard to define what would.

Why Did Harris Choose Walz as VP?

Earlier, I questioned why Harris chose Walz as her VP. Some believe that Walz was a safe choice, while Shapiro would have been a riskier, but potentially more rewarding option. Shapiro has had some issues with the Progressive Left, but it's unclear if there were other factors at play. Perhaps Harris chose Walz to avoid potential protests in Chicago over Palestinian issues. However, Walz may also face challenges appealing to the political middle.

Chicago Protests

The potential for protests in Chicago was a topic of discussion this morning, and the Wall Street Journal also addressed it later in the day. If the possibility of protests influenced Harris's VP choice, many would express gratitude for the city's influence.

Bottom Line

Tim Walz's selection as VP candidate by Kamala Harris has raised interesting questions about his progressive credentials and the potential impact of his policies. It also offers insights into the strategic considerations of the Democratic party. What are your thoughts on this matter? Do you think Walz's progressive actions align with the broader goals of the Democratic party? Share your views with your friends and join the conversation. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is available every day at 6pm.