Local expert shares how VP nominee Walz could appeal to Ohio voters

DAYTON, Ohio ( WDTN ) — Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz joined the Democratic ticket after weeks of intensive vetting. His background could appeal to a variety of voters, including those in Ohio.

The Harris campaign believes he brings a sense of balance to the ticket — Walz is 60 years old, a two-term governor, former congressman, teacher and Veteran.

Dr. Lee Hannah, a Wright State University political science professor, says this pick was strategic and overall a good decision for the Harris campaign.

“Most of the policies I think he compliments pretty well,” said Hannah. “I think he and Harris, I don’t see much distance between the two of them.”

But it will take some time for people to get to know the Minnesota governor. Hannah says voters will have to take a crash course on Walz, with just under three months until Election Day.

The political science professor says there are things voters will like — Walz is a Veteran, having served in the Army National Guard for 24 years.

He also served six terms in Congress, where he advocated for fellow Veterans. Before that, he was a teacher and coach, spending time in the education system before he started his political career.

Walz won the Minnesota governor’s race in 2019 by more than 11 points, but outside of his home state, he’s not that well known.

But Hannah says Walz will likely appeal to Ohio voters because of his Midwestern roots and military background.

“He has a background as a high school teacher, as a football coach, as a National Guard member,” said Hannah. “If you’re worried about being out of touch because you know your career is kind of all in politics, that’s where I see him rebuilding it out.”

There is no date currently set for Walz and Ohio Senator and Republican Vice President nominee JD Vance to debate.

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