How could Tim Walz’s political record help and hurt Harris?

The Minnesota governor and his allies have used their power to push a slate of progressive policies, but other aspects of his record could present a liability

Presumptive Democratic nominee Kamala Harris has chosen the Minnesota governor, Tim Walz, as her running mate in the presidential race, elevating a popular although relatively unknown leader who has attracted the support of progressive voters in recent days.

Walz has served as Minnesota's governor since 2019 after 12 years in the House of Representatives and now leads the Democratic Governors Association. He has built a reputation as a folksy politician who can get things done, as Minnesota has adopted a number of progressive laws during his tenure. According to a poll conducted earlier this year, Walz enjoys an approval rating of 55% among Minnesotans.