TLDR:
Walz thanks supporters and vows resilience
Reflects on campaign and nation’s needs
Urges finding common ground amid division
MINNESOTA (The Thursday Times) — Tim Walz, Kamala Harris’s vice-presidential running mate and the current governor of Minnesota, delivered his first public address since losing the recent election. Speaking to a crowd in his home state, Walz expressed gratitude for Harris’s confidence in him and highlighted the positive spirit of their campaign. He admitted that losing is difficult and shared his disappointment over why so many voters chose a different path. Walz’s message was marked by resilience, a commitment to fight for Minnesotan values, and a call for unity, emphasizing the importance of working together despite political differences.
Walz opened his remarks by thanking Harris for the “faith she placed in him” and for leading a campaign he described as both “powerful” and “joyful.” He acknowledged the emotional toll of the loss, describing it as “hard to understand” why Americans chose the opposing candidate. Reflecting on his time on the campaign trail, he noted how deeply he felt the common desire among citizens for freedom in living their lives according to their own values. He described his drive to protect Minnesotans from any potential harm brought by national policies he sees as divisive.
‘Hateful’ agendas
Emphasising his dedication to Minnesota, Walz vowed to defend his state’s inclusive policies against agendas he described as “hateful.” He pointed to his record in Minnesota, where his administration has supported reproductive rights, immigrant communities, and broader social policies. Walz promised to continue advocating for the values that Minnesotans hold dear, reiterating that his defeat does not change his resolve. He called on supporters to maintain focus and “fight harder” to protect the progress they had achieved.
Walz spoke passionately about the shared aspirations he witnessed across the country. He underscored the American desire for secure lives built on a solid foundation, with access to meaningful work, safe neighbourhoods, and quality education. He observed that most people want the freedom to live without fear of judgement, regardless of whom they love or how they worship. This, he said, encapsulates the essence of his campaign’s vision for America—a country where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
While Walz openly criticised opposing policies, he also urged his supporters to approach political differences with understanding. He cautioned against viewing the other side’s supporters as enemies, suggesting that common ground must be found for the country to progress. He encouraged openness and empathy, hoping that with time, Americans could see one another as neighbours rather than adversaries.