Vice President Kamala Harris and her new running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, kicked off their campaign with a rally in Philadelphia on Tuesday evening. This was Harris’ first appearance since being officially nominated by the Democratic Party.
Standing with Walz, Harris declared, “I am now officially the Democratic nominee for president of the United States. Now, we have to focus on the general election and win it.”
She introduced Walz as a leader who can help unite the nation and fight for the middle class. “I found such a leader in Governor Tim Walz of Minnesota,” Harris said, receiving cheers from the crowd.
Harris praised Walz for his record on abortion and voting rights, noting his significant achievements in Minnesota. She also highlighted Walz’s executive experience, emphasizing that he would be ready from Day One, just as President Biden had said about her in 2020.
Walz spoke about his background, including his time as a high school teacher and military service. He criticized former President Donald Trump, saying Trump prioritizes his own interests over the country’s.
Walz also expressed eagerness to debate GOP vice presidential nominee, Sen. JD Vance, if he participates.
With 19 electoral votes, Pennsylvania is crucial for the election. Harris and Trump are currently tied at 50% in Pennsylvania, according to the latest CBS News poll.
The Philadelphia rally began Harris and Walz’s campaign tour of seven battleground states this week. They will visit Eau Claire, Detroit, Phoenix, and Las Vegas. Harris had planned additional stops in North Carolina and Georgia, but these were postponed due to Tropical Storm Debby.