Democrats lean on Walz’s biography at Philadelphia rally introducing new ticket to voters

CNN —

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz introduced himself as Vice President Kamala Harris’ running mate for the first time at a joint Philadelphia rally Tuesday, positioning himself as both a folksy populist and a fierce defender of the official Democratic ticket.

“We’ve got 91 days. We’ll sleep when we’re dead,” Walz told the crowd. “Over those 91 days, and every day in the White House, I’ll have Vice President Harris’ back every single day – and we’ll have yours.”

The appearance marked the first opportunity for both Walz, a relatively unknown politician on the national scale, and Harris to share his story with voters across the country, from his upbringing in small town, rural Nebraska to his record as governor of the North Star State.

“Since the day that I announced my candidacy, I set out to find a partner who can help build this brighter future,” Harris said. “A leader who will help unite our nation and move us forward. A fighter for the middle class, a patriot who believes as I do in the extraordinary promise of America. A promise of freedom, opportunity and justice – not just for some, but for all.”

It was also an opportunity for the party to unify after the vice president’s search for a running mate grew competitive in its final days.

Harris and Walz were introduced by Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, one of three running mate candidates the vice president met with in-person over the weekend. Shapiro, who faced a last-minute push to hurt his chances of being chosen, started his speech by telling the crowd how much he loves his current job and vowing to help elect Harris and Walz.

“I am going to continue to pour my heart and soul into serving you every single day as your governor, and I’m going to be working my