Kamala Harris selects Tim Walz as VP candidate ahead of election

"I am proud to announce that I've asked Tim Walz to be my running mate," Kamala Harris shared in a social media post on Tuesday.

Thus, earlier unofficial reports that Kamala Harris had chosen Tim Walz for this position have been confirmed. CNN reported this information, citing four people connected to the entire process.

"This is the greatest honour of my life," Walz said in response to Harris's announcement, declaring full engagement in the campaign ahead of the presidential election, which will take place on 5 November.

Earlier on Tuesday, the Reuters agency reported that Harris had narrowed her choice to two politicians: Walz and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro.

In 2006, Walz was elected to the House of Representatives, where he served for 12 years. In 2018, he became the Governor of Minnesota.

The 60-year-old is a former National Guard military member and teacher who has recently gained recognition among Democratic voters as a staunch supporter of Harris. Walz, a former congressional representative from a district heavily favoured by Republicans, has proven to be an appealing choice for white rural voters despite advocating for liberal policies as governor, exemplified by his proposals for free school meals and extended paid family leave - Reuters emphasised.

Although Minnesota is a state where the Democratic Party performs well, it is close to Wisconsin and Michigan, which have traditionally been sceptical of Democrats. Therefore, choosing Walz could be seen as a nod to the electorate of swing voters or those with moderate views, who may be put off by the unpredictability attributed to Republican candidate Donald Trump—American analysts and media have highlighted this in recent days.