Republicans are happy and ready to fight progressive Democrats with Kamala Harris as VP.
As the presidential election draws closer, Congressional Republicans are eager to challenge an ultra-progressive ticket in November after Vice President Kamala Harris selected Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate. The decision has sparked strong reactions from prominent Republicans, who are already gearing up to launch a fierce attack campaign against the newly formed tandem.
Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina wasted no time in expressing his disapproval, drawing parallels between Walz and self-described democratic socialist Senator Bernie Sanders. Graham quipped, “Harris Feels the Bern and picks Walz. Thank you, Kamala! Governor Tim Walz is a dream for the radical Left.”
House Majority Whip Tom Emmer, the highest-ranking House lawmaker from Minnesota, accused Walz of implementing policies that mirror those of the blue stronghold of California. Emmer criticized Walz for adopting what he sees as disastrous economic, open-borders, and soft-on-crime policies reminiscent of Harris’ approach.
Emmer further remarked, “Walz is an empty suit who has worked to turn Minnesota into Harris’ home state of California, solidifying this ticket’s commitment to a radical, America-last agenda.”
In a preview of the GOP’s likely attack strategy for the upcoming months, several Republicans highlighted Walz’s leadership during the Black Lives Matter riots in the summer of 2020. Additionally, they raised concerns about Harris’ support for a bail fund for rioters, the Minnesota Freedom Fund, during her 2020 presidential campaign.
House GOP Conference Chair Elise Stefanik of New York labeled the Harris-Walz ticket as representing the most radical Far Left wing in history. Stefanik criticized Walz for his past support of defunding the police and accused him of endorsing violent actions that saw cities destroyed. Stefanik also lambasted Harris for her fundraising efforts to bail out violent criminals.
Representative Tom Tiffany of Wisconsin echoed these sentiments, emphasizing Walz’s perceived inaction during the civil unrest and Harris’ support for rioters. According to Tiffany, their actions reflect a socialist dream rather than a vision for progress and unity.
During the protests four years ago, Walz faced criticism for his delayed response in deploying the National Guard while Minneapolis was embroiled in chaos, with buildings being set ablaze and stores looted.
Senator Tom Cotton of Arkansas joined in the criticism, stating, “Tim Walz is a perfect choice for Kamala Harris. He let BLM rioters, arsonists, and looters rampage through his state, and she encouraged donations to the bail fund for the few who were arrested.”
While the Republican camp is already mobilizing to challenge the Harris-Walz ticket, top progressives such as Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York lauded the pairing. Ocasio-Cortez praised Harris’ decision to select Walz as her running mate, expressing confidence in their ability to govern effectively and inclusively for the American people.
As the political landscape heats up in anticipation of the election, the clash between the Harris-Walz ticket and their opponents is expected to intensify, setting the stage for a highly contentious campaign season.
