Minnesota Governor Tim Walz held a rally in Green Bay, Wisconsin, in a final push for support just three weeks before the presidential election. Speaking to a crowd of enthusiastic supporters, Walz emphasized the importance of Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Michigan as critical battlegrounds.
He portrayed these states as pivotal for winning not just the presidency, but also control of the Senate, likening the political landscape to the NFC North division in football.
Walz cleverly referenced the rivalry between the Minnesota Vikings, Detroit Lions, and Green Bay Packers to highlight the regional unity behind his campaign efforts, with Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers, and himself forming a united front.
During the rally, Walz brought up the unlikely alliance backing the Harris-Walz ticket, naming progressive Senator Bernie Sanders, former Vice President Dick Cheney, and pop star Taylor Swift.
Cheney, once a staunch Republican and a key figure in the Iraq War, recently made headlines by declaring his support for Harris. Taylor Swift, known for her liberal views and activism, endorsed Harris shortly after the last presidential debate.
Walz’s mention of these diverse supporters underscored his campaign’s broad appeal across different demographics and ideologies.
In his speech, Walz launched a pointed critique of former President Donald Trump, who is aiming to reclaim the White House. Walz questioned Trump’s mental sharpness and age, suggesting that Trump, nearly 80, has shown signs of confusion.
Walz said that “Trump often goes on lengthy, unfocused rants that lead to audience fatigue, framing Trump as out of touch with voters needs.“
Walz’s remarks also addressed key issues that he believes are at stake in this election, particularly those affecting women. He appealed directly to male voters, asking them to consider the impact of political decisions on the women in their lives.
Walz pointed to Trump’s Supreme Court appointments and their role in the overturning of Roe v. Wade, which has reduced reproductive rights for women across the country.
By evoking personal connections, Walz aimed to persuade voters to prioritize women’s rights and consider the broader implications of their choice in the voting booth.
As his speech drew to a close, Walz injected a bit of humor, comparing his campaign to the Minnesota Vikings, a team historically seen as underdogs. He urged the crowd to embrace their underdog spirit and cast their votes for the Harris-Walz ticket, portraying their campaign as the one fighting for everyday Americans.
He called on voters to challenge the status quo and make their voices heard, portraying the upcoming election as a crucial moment for those who feel overlooked.
Walz’s rally was a mix of personal appeals, strategic political messaging, and cultural references aimed at connecting with voters in a swing state. By invoking figures like Sanders, Cheney, and Swift, Walz aimed to demonstrate the wide-ranging support behind his campaign.
His focus on issues like reproductive rights and the unpredictability of Trump’s leadership added a sense of urgency to his message, as he called on the crowd to rally around Harris and embrace their role in shaping the country’s future.