Governor Tim Walz of Minnesota used his high-profile acceptance speech at the Democratic National Convention to position himself as a relatable figure for disenchanted Americans who see the Democratic Party as elitist. On Wednesday night, Walz formally accepted the vice-presidential nomination, marking his rise from a relatively unknown governor to a prominent party leader.
Speaking from the Democratic National Convention stage in Chicago, Walz emphasized his Midwestern roots and portrayed the Democratic ticket as embodying pragmatism and patriotism. “We’re all here tonight for one beautiful, simple reason: We love this country,” he declared.
Previously, Walz was known mostly to engaged Democrats who appreciated his critical remarks about Republicans. However, his speech highlighted his background as a former high school football coach, which resonated with the audience. Convention organizers distributed “Coach Walz” signs, and a group of his former players, now adults, performed their high school fight song in his honor. Chants of “Coach” echoed throughout his address, which was filled with football analogies.
“It’s the fourth quarter. We’re down a field goal,” Walz said. “But we’re on offense and we’ve got the ball. We’re driving down the field. And boy, do we have the right team.” He emphasized the team’s commitment to moving forward: “We’re going to leave it on the field.”
Walz’s appeal to working-class and rural voters, particularly men, was a key focus of his speech. Senator Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota highlighted his relatable persona, saying, “Who better to take on the price of gas than a guy who could pull over to help change your tire?” She praised Walz for his “Midwestern common sense.”
The speech also featured a personal touch with Walz’s family. His wife, Gwen Walz, introduced him in a video, and their children, Hope and Gus, were shown reacting emotionally as Walz spoke about his family being his “entire world.” His son’s tearful response to seeing his father on stage underscored the personal connection.
Walz’s career began as a culturally conservative Democrat, particularly on issues like gun control. However, he has evolved into a liberal figure, achieving significant policy changes during his tenure as governor. He proudly highlighted his accomplishments, such as expanding free school meals, and drew a contrast with other states by saying, “While other states were banning books from their schools, we were banishing hunger from ours.”
During his time in Congress, Walz flipped a conservative district in Minnesota and built a reputation for bipartisan cooperation. His emphasis on small-town values and his folksy style were evident throughout his speech, including his choice of walk-on music, John Mellencamp’s “Small Town.”
Walz also used his speech to counter Republican charges of elitism. He contrasted his upbringing in a small Nebraska town with the elite education of some Republican figures, stating, “I had 24 kids in my high school class. And none of them went to Yale.”
Both Walz and Vice President Kamala Harris have embraced rhetoric traditionally associated with right-leaning values, portraying themselves as defenders of fundamental American freedoms. Walz criticized the Republican agenda for serving only the wealthy and extreme, asserting, “Leaders don’t spend all day insulting people and blaming others. Leaders do the work.”
In his speech, Walz also addressed criticisms of his military service record. He defended his service in the Army National Guard, affirming his pride in having worn the nation’s uniform. He positioned himself against former President Donald Trump, criticizing Trump’s divisive rhetoric and advocating for a more constructive approach to leadership.
Walz’s speech at the convention underscored his transformation into a key Democratic figure and his commitment to connecting with a broader, more diverse electorate.