Pawlenty's View on Walz: A Midwest Bernie Sanders

Walz as Harris' Running Mate

Tim Pawlenty, the last Republican governor of Minnesota, has voiced his concerns over Vice President Kamala Harris' choice of Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate. Pawlenty believes this decision reflects the Democratic Party's strong commitment to a democrat-socialist agenda. Harris announced her selection of the incumbent governor of Minnesota on Tuesday, Aug. 6, ending weeks of speculation about her choice for vice president. In her announcement, Harris lauded Walz for his bipartisan approach and readiness to work with Republicans on key issues such as infrastructure investments, universal background checks for gun purchases, tax cuts for working-class families, paid family and medical leave bills, and protecting abortion rights.

Walz's Progressive Overhaul of Minnesota

During his term as governor, 60-year-old Walz has significantly transformed Minnesota into a progressive state. This transformation accelerated after he won a second term in 2022, and the Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party, the Minnesota branch of the Democrats, gained full control of both houses of the state legislature. With Walz on the ticket, the Democrats may now use Minnesota as a blueprint for their national plans.

Pawlenty's Take on Walz

Pawlenty, who served as governor from 2003 to 2011 and once campaigned to be the Republican Party’s candidate for the 2012 election, gave his opinion on Walz to Fox 9. He sees Walz as being in line with Harris, both philosophically and politically, but notes that Walz brings a unique style and geography to the 2024 Democratic ticket. Pawlenty likened Walz to a Midwest version of Bernie Sanders, suggesting that while the packaging may be different, the product is the same.

Criticisms and Strengths of Walz

While Walz's progressive record is celebrated by some, it also serves as fodder for Republicans who view Harris and her running mate as too liberal. Pawlenty believes that the Trump campaign will easily be able to criticize Walz for his handling of the 2020 George Floyd riots and his record of significant state spending increases. However, Pawlenty also recognizes Walz's potential strengths as a campaigner, describing him as energetic, friendly, and interested in issues.

Pawlenty's Personal Stance

Pawlenty clarified his personal stance, stating he does not support the Harris-Walz ticket and has voted for Trump in the past, with the possibility of doing so again. He believes the Trump campaign will portray the Harris-Walz ticket as radical and questions how well this will resonate in places like Pennsylvania.

Bottom Line

Pawlenty's critique of Walz as a Midwest Bernie Sanders offers a unique perspective on the political landscape. It raises questions about the direction of the Democratic Party and the potential impact of a Harris-Walz ticket. What are your thoughts on this? Do you agree with Pawlenty's assessment? Share your thoughts with your friends and consider signing up for the Daily Briefing, which is delivered every day at 6pm.