GOP claims Tim Walz is radical

In a significant political development, U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris has selected Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate for the upcoming presidential election. However, Walz remains largely unknown to 71% of voters, prompting both Democratic and Republican campaigns to quickly shape his public image. Democrats are portraying him as a relatable figure with a background in education, while Republicans are framing him as a radical leftist, seizing the opportunity to regain momentum following Harris's entry into the race. As Harris and Walz embark on their campaign tour, Republican vice-presidential hopeful J.D. Vance has criticized the selection, suggesting it aligns Harris with the progressive wing of the Democratic Party. Former President Donald Trump has also weighed in, expressing delight at Walz's selection and labeling it a "shocking mistake." Republicans have intensified their attacks, particularly focusing on Walz's support for transgender rights in Minnesota, which they argue reflects a broader radical agenda. In response to GOP criticisms regarding Walz's military service, Democratic lawmakers have defended him against accusations of "stolen valor." They assert that Walz's retirement from the National Guard occurred before his unit's deployment to Iraq, countering claims made by Republican figures. Veterans involved in the Harris-Walz campaign have expressed frustration over these attacks, emphasizing the importance of all military service. Texas Senator Ted Cruz has also criticized Walz, calling him the "most radical left-wing governor" in the country. He argues that Harris's choice reflects a broader anti-Semitic sentiment within the Democratic Party, suggesting that had Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro been non-Jewish, he would have been selected instead. Cruz's comments highlight the contentious nature of the political landscape as the election approaches.