Vice President Kamala Harris and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz begin their first full day campaigning together, aiming to rally Democrats in the Midwest, a crucial region for their White House bid. The trip starts in Wisconsin, then moves to Michigan, targeting younger, diverse, labor-friendly voters pivotal in President Joe Biden’s 2020 win. However, Democratic unity in Michigan, a hub of party divisions over Biden’s policy on the Israel-Hamas conflict, appeared strained this summer.
With Biden out of the race and Harris as the Democratic nominee, Arab American leaders and key unions are positive about Walz joining the ticket. They see it as a move to address concerns over another VP contender, Gov. Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania. Michigan leaders believe the party is making efforts to rebuild crucial coalitions.
In Michigan, there has been a surge in Democratic enthusiasm following Harris’s candidacy announcement. Detroit, predominantly Black, is experiencing remarkable excitement reminiscent of Barack Obama’s 2008 election. However, some Michigan Democrats were concerned that choosing the wrong running mate could hinder progress and fracture the recently unified coalition.
Arab American leaders in Michigan opposed Shapiro due to his stance on the Israel-Hamas conflict, feeling his comments were unfair. They expressed these concerns publicly and to the White House and Harris’ team. Leaders met with White House adviser Tom Perez to convey their worries, emphasizing that any conversations must also involve policy discussions.
The United Auto Workers’ endorsement was a crucial factor in Harris’s vice presidential choice. The union endorsed Harris promptly after she replaced Biden, highlighting that Shapiro was not favored due to past actions. UAW President Shawn Fain praised Walz, emphasizing his support for the working class, making him a great choice for vice president.
Michigan leaders like Rep. Debbie Dingell lauded the choice of Walz, believing it would boost enthusiasm at the rally in Detroit. She expressed confidence in his ability to be a genuine partner to Harris, understanding Midwest issues. Walz’s selection reflects an attempt by the Democratic Party to solidify support in the Midwest ahead of the upcoming election.
