Minnesota Governor Tim Walz formally accepted his nomination as the Democratic Party's vice presidential candidate during a keynote speech at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago.
Expressing deep patriotism, Walz called it "the honor of my life" to accept the nomination, emphasizing the shared love for America among those present.
Walz, a relatively unknown figure on the national stage, brings a grounded, Midwestern perspective to Kamala Harris's campaign against Donald Trump.
His speech highlighted his background as a former teacher, National Guard soldier, and football coach. He focused on protecting freedoms and building a better future.
Former President Bill Clinton also spoke, praising Harris's choice of Walz as her running mate. Clinton described the duo as embodying the American dream and urged voters to elect them for a "breath of fresh air" in leadership.
The crowd's excitement peaked when Walz was introduced by former students alongside a performance by John Legend.
The convention defied expectations of disunity following President Joe Biden's decision not to seek reelection and saw strong support for Walz, who has quickly become a favorite among Democratic supporters. His folksy charm and ability to connect with voters complement Harris's historic candidacy as the first Black woman nominee for vice president.
Throughout the convention, Walz has gained attention for his sharp critiques of Trump and his running mate, J.D. Vance, branding them as "weird." His speeches have resonated with voters, particularly his balance of Harris's California roots with his Midwestern background.
The chemistry between Harris and Walz, combined with the enthusiasm at their rallies, is boosting Democratic hopes for a victory in November. Polls show Harris gaining a slight lead over Trump, a surprising shift given Trump's earlier momentum against Biden.
The duo's ability to draw large crowds, similar to Trump's past rallies, has become a critical factor in their campaign's growing strength.
