Walz Starts Fundraising Tour in 5 States

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz made his first solo campaign appearance as Vice President Kamala Harris' running mate at the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) convention in Los Angeles on August 13. Addressing thousands of union members, Walz emphasized the importance of unions in building the nation and highlighted his own experience as a dues-paying member of a teachers' union. He reiterated his commitment to workers' rights, including advocating for paid family and medical leave during his tenure as governor. Following his speech, Walz is set to embark on a fundraising blitz across five states over three days, starting with events in California. The campaign has limited media access to Walz's appearances, with most events covered by an editorial print pooler. Fundraising tickets for a Newport Beach event range from $1,000 to $100,000, reflecting the campaign's strategy to engage high-profile donors. Walz's campaign tour comes on the heels of a successful fundraising effort by Harris, who raised $36 million within 24 hours of announcing Walz as her vice-presidential pick. The duo recently visited key battleground states, including Michigan and Wisconsin, to bolster their campaign efforts. As Walz prepares for his fundraising events in Denver, Boston, Newport, and Southampton, he faces criticism from Republican opponents, including Senator J.D. Vance, who has questioned his military service and the Democratic ticket's appeal to moderate voters. The political landscape remains charged as both parties gear up for the upcoming election.