In a move that has captured national attention, Vice President Kamala Harris has announced Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her vice-presidential running mate for the 2024 Presidential Election. Walz has a background representing rural communities and has served two terms as the Minnesota governor. Walz transitioned to politics in 2006, winning a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives for Minnesota's 1st congressional district. Serving in Congress from 2007 to 2019, he focused on veterans' affairs, agriculture, and infrastructure, gaining a reputation for his advocacy for veterans and his moderate political stance. 

Here are five things to know about the VP pick.

Tim Walz was born in West Point, Nebraska, a small town with a population of just 3,500. His upbringing in the even smaller town of Butte shaped his early life. At 17, Walz enlisted in the Army National Guard, showcasing his commitment to public service from a young age. His military experience has been a cornerstone of his career, providing him with leadership skills and a strong sense of duty.

In May 2023, Governor Walz made a significant cultural contribution by renaming a stretch of Minnesota Highway 5 to the Prince Rogers Nelson Memorial Highway. Prince, the legendary musician born in Minneapolis in 1958 and passed away in 2016, changed the world with his music and cultural impact. The renaming ceremony, where Walz used purple ink to sign the bill, highlighted his dedication to honoring Minnesota's rich cultural heritage.

Governor Walz has been a staunch advocate for voting rights. In May, he signed the Minnesota Voting Rights Act, a critical piece of legislation to restore private enforcement capabilities after a restrictive ruling by the 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. This act strengthens the protections originally established by the Voting Rights Act of 1965, a cornerstone of the Civil Rights Movement, ensuring that the sanctity of the ballot box is preserved.

Governor Walz has steadfastly advocated for Black communities, which is evident through his support of various significant legislations. In July, he signed the African American Family Preservation Act to strengthen protections for families at risk of separation in the foster care system. Earlier, in February 2023, he passed the CROWN Act to eliminate discrimination based on hair texture and style in workplaces and schools. In 2021, Walz formed the Missing and Murdered African American Women’s Task Force to tackle the serious issue of violence against Black women. He has also championed reproductive rights, ensuring access to services like in vitro fertilization. Furthermore, his administration has prioritized allocating budget resources to support Black communities.

The tragic death of George Floyd in 2020, which occurred in Minneapolis, catalyzed significant police reforms in Minnesota. Floyd's death, a result of excessive force by a police officer, sparked nationwide protests and a renewed call for justice and equality. Governor Walz played a pivotal role in enacting police reforms after overcoming substantial legislative challenges within the state's divided government. He also appointed Attorney General Keith Ellison to prosecute the former officers responsible for George Floyd's death.

Governor Tim Walz's leadership is characterized by his dedication to public service, his efforts to honor cultural icons, his staunch advocacy for voting and civil rights, and his commitment to addressing systemic inequalities. These qualities will define his political journey as he steps into the national spotlight.