In the 2024 elections, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz joins the Democratic ticket with a robust military background that could enhance Vice President Kamala Harris’s appeal, particularly in matters of national security. Walz, who served 24 years in the Army National Guard and retired as a command sergeant major, brings a wealth of experience to the table.
Walz’s military service is notable, as he was the highest-ranking enlisted soldier to serve in Congress when he joined the House in 2007. Although he was deployed to various regions, including the Arctic Circle, he did not serve in a combat zone. This contrasts with his Republican counterpart, Sen. JD Vance (R-Ohio), who has combat experience in Iraq.
Walz’s military credentials are complemented by his ability to connect with rural voters, having won election to Congress in a traditionally Republican district. His track record on military personnel and veterans’ issues is extensive. During his 12 years in the House, he served as the ranking Democrat on the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee and held multiple stints on the Armed Services Committee.
Like Harris, Walz has shown a willingness to challenge his party on military issues. He opposed President George W. Bush’s troop surge in Iraq but voted to continue funding the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Walz was also an early advocate for repealing the military’s “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy.
Walz’s legislative achievements include the bipartisan veterans’ suicide prevention legislation that became law in 2015. As governor, he co-chairs the Council of Governors, advising federal officials on Guard, homeland defense, and civil support operations.
On foreign policy, Walz’s record aligns closely with Harris’s. He condemned the Oct. 7 attacks against Israel and praised President Biden’s deal securing humanitarian aid to Palestinians in Gaza. Walz also supported legislation ending Minnesota’s investments in Russia and Belarus in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Walz’s background on China is another significant aspect of his resume. He taught in China as part of the now-defunct WorldTeach program and ran a company with his wife that offered educational trips to China for high school students. Although Republicans may criticize him as potentially soft on Beijing, Walz has a history of advocating for human rights in China, having met with the Dalai Lama and served on the Congressional-Executive Commission on China.
