Minnesota Governor Tim Walz revealed that former Vice President Kamala Harris selected him as her 2024 running mate because he could “code talk to white guys,” aiming to make rural white male voters feel more comfortable supporting the Democratic ticket. Speaking at a Harvard Kennedy School forum on April 29, 2025, Walz stated, “I could code talk to white guys watching football, fixing their truck,” describing himself as the “permission structure” for these voters to back Harris.
Walz emphasized that his selection was strategic, intended to bridge the gap between the Democratic Party and rural white male voters. He acknowledged that, despite this approach, the ticket failed to secure enough support in key swing states during the 2024 election.
The governor’s remarks have drawn criticism, with some commentators questioning the effectiveness and appropriateness of such targeted messaging. Critics argue that this strategy may have been out of touch with the broader electorate.
