Vice President Kamala Harris has reportedly chosen Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate, a decision that has received praise from progressives but criticism from Republicans for various controversies tied to Walz's tenure as governor.
Key Points
Walz's progressive record and plainspoken demeanor have thrilled the Harris campaign.
Critics point to controversies like Walz's past arrest and handling of the Minneapolis riots as weaknesses.
Republicans have criticized Walz's pandemic-era restrictions and oversight failures.
Pros
Walz has a strong progressive record with support for unions and achievements like codifying abortion rights and providing universal free school meals.
Selection of Walz reinforces the Democratic ticket's strength in Midwestern battleground states.
Cons
Controversies include questions about Walz's past arrest for drunken driving and criticisms for his handling of the Minneapolis riots after George Floyd's killing.
Republicans have raised concerns about Walz's slow response to the riots and lax oversight of pandemic programs that led to fraud.