OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Tim Walz highlighted his Nebraska roots during his first visit back to his home state since becoming the Democratic vice presidential nominee. He drew stark comparisons between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump.
Acknowledging his fondness for Nebraska football and humorously mentioning the Stonehenge replica, Carhenge, Walz reflected on the values of helping neighbors and respecting privacy that he learned while growing up.
“More than anything else — just like here in Nebraska — Minnesota’s strength comes from our values,” he expressed about the state he governs.
Walz emphasized the belief he shares with Harris in fostering success for all Americans, in contrast to the focus of Trump and the GOP on assisting only millionaires and billionaires. This was part of his campaign to secure the singular electoral vote in Omaha’s swing Second Congressional District.
Referring to Republicans as intrusive in people’s lives, Walz criticized their interference in healthcare decisions, abortion rights, and Social Security, labeling it as not only peculiar but hazardous.
Nebraska Democrats Chairwoman Jane Kleeb humorously referred to Omaha as “Kamaha” and urged rally attendees to support Harris and Walz in the upcoming November elections.
Supporters are hopeful that Walz’s understanding of rural America, cultivated in his upbringing in Valentine and Butte, could help Democrats gain traction in traditionally Republican regions.
Former state Sen. Al Davis believes that Walz’s ability to resonate with rural communities could sway votes in parts of Nebraska and the Midwest.
Walz’s former student, Bill McCamley, reminisced about Walz’s early interest in government and his initiative to construct a veterans memorial at a young age.
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