Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, the Democratic vice-presidential nominee, campaigned in Arizona on Tuesday, focusing on voter engagement ahead of the vice-presidential debate between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump.
Arizona Central reported that Walz emphasized the significance of Arizona as a battleground state and drew contrasts between the Democratic and Republican platforms on issues like abortion and climate change.
He was careful to avoid talk about the border or the economy which are two big ticket items that Harris and Walz are getting killed on, especially in Arizona where the impacts of the border crisis are being strongly felt.
Walz’s visit marked his first solo trip to Arizona since being named as Vice President Kamala Harris's running mate, underscoring the Sun Belt’s role in the 2024 presidential race.
The visit began with his arrival at Sky Harbor International Airport in Phoenix at 12:41 p.m., where he was greeted by Arizona Democratic Party leaders, including Chair Yolanda Bejarano and local officials such as Tempe Mayor Corey Woods and Gila River Indian Community Gov. Stephen Roe Lewis.
Walz's Arizona trip was part of a broader push through the Sun Belt states. Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs joined him during a stop at a campaign field office, where Walz spoke to volunteers. He commended their efforts and encouraged them to push hard as the election draws closer, noting the high stakes in Arizona.
As Walz campaigned, he didn't shy away from addressing national issues. One of his sharpest criticisms was aimed at Project 2025, a conservative policy proposal. Walz attacked the initiative's stance on abortion rights, stating, “Shut the hell up about talking about women,” a line that resonated with many of the young voters he met later that day.
In Tempe, Walz took time to visit Snakes & Lattes, a popular cafe and bar known for attracting young voters. During this stop, he emphasized the importance of youth participation in the political process. Speaking to a group of young voters, Walz urged them to recognize their power and influence in the election, saying, “Do not underestimate the power you have.”
He used this visit as an opportunity to draw clear distinctions between the two political parties. “We are not the same,” he said, adding that there is a “very big difference” between Democratic and Republican values. The conversation also touched on climate change and reproductive rights, two critical issues that Walz believes could sway voters in the state.
Ahead of the highly anticipated debate between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump, Walz made an appearance at a phone bank in Mesa. He engaged with volunteers and even made calls to potential voters himself. The pre-debate event, scheduled for 5:30 p.m., saw a high level of enthusiasm as Walz previewed the evening’s main event.
He voiced confidence in Harris, predicting a strong performance in the debate, which would lay out her vision for the country. “Tonight you’ll see an impassioned, joyful, visionary, ready leader make her case,” Walz told supporters. He contrasted Harris's approach with Trump's, stating, "He likes to be a television star. He’ll be canceled in 56 days."
Walz's focus on Arizona reflects its status as a crucial battleground in the 2024 election. Both Democratic and Republican campaigns are pouring resources into the state, with Arizona’s 11 electoral votes seen as pivotal. Walz had previously visited Arizona with Harris for a rally in Glendale, but this visit underscored his solo efforts to rally support.
On the Republican side, JD Vance, Donald Trump's running mate, has also been actively campaigning in Arizona. Vance has criticized Harris’s record, particularly on national issues. "I really hope that Kamala Harris actually just answers some questions about why she allegedly is running away from every single position she had," Vance said during a recent visit to the state.
As the race heats up, both parties are intensifying their outreach efforts in Arizona. The Harris-Walz campaign has focused on mobilizing voters through grassroots efforts like canvassing and phone banking, aiming to capitalize on issues like reproductive rights, climate action, and healthcare.
Walz’s visit also aimed to reenergize Democratic volunteers, as he made a clear case for their continued efforts. “We are the underdogs in this race,” he said, a sentiment meant to galvanize supporters. But despite his statement, he remained optimistic, echoing the theme of hope and hard work driving the Democratic ticket.
With the November election approaching, Arizona remains a key focal point for both parties.
Walz's visit showcased the Democrats' determination to secure the state while drawing clear lines between the two parties on critical issues. As Walz put it, “Kamala Harris has been talking about freedom. Freedom to make our own health care decisions. We’ve got to win the election first.”
