Kamala Harris has officially chosen Tim Walz, the liberal Governor of Minnesota, as her vice-presidential candidate for the upcoming election. This decision thrusts a relatively unknown political figure into the spotlight with less than 100 days until Election Day. CNN first reported Harris's selection, followed by the Associated Press, citing sources close to the process. Harris is set to introduce Walz at a rally in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Walz, one of the final contenders along with figures like Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, gained attention after President Joe Biden withdrew from the race last month. Democrats hope that Walz’s midwestern background and folksy demeanor will help Harris appeal to voters in key battleground states. However, Walz’s progressive agenda, which includes controversial policies on immigration, voting rights for felons, and transgender medical interventions for children, may alienate moderate voters. His tenure as governor was marked by significant criticism over his handling of the George Floyd riots and stringent COVID-19 restrictions, leading to economic strain and public unrest.