Harris's VP Pick Taught in China

Tim Walz, the vice-presidential pick for Kamala Harris, has garnered significant attention in China, particularly on social media platform Weibo, where discussions about his past teaching experience in Guangdong province in 1989 have amassed over 12 million views. The 60-year-old Minnesota governor, who previously worked as a history teacher and football coach, spent a year in China shortly after graduating college, teaching English and American history at a high school. The timing of Walz's teaching stint coincided with the Tiananmen Square massacre, a pivotal moment in Chinese history that has led to intense scrutiny of his background. Many social media users reflected on the stark differences in China during that era, with one comment highlighting the "very different atmosphere" of the time. The massacre, which resulted in a death toll estimated to be over 10,000, remains a sensitive topic in China. Some commentators believe that Walz's unique experiences could foster better cultural exchanges between the U.S. and China, especially amid ongoing tensions over trade and geopolitical issues. His marriage to his wife on June 4, 1994, the fifth anniversary of the Tiananmen uprising, further connects him to this historical context. While some Trump allies have suggested that Walz's nomination would be positively received in China, the Chinese government has yet to comment on the matter. Richard Grenell, a former Trump administration official, remarked on social media that "Communist China is very happy" with Walz's selection as Harris's running mate.