Many Texans got their first glimpse of Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz at the Democratic National Convention on Wednesday night. While his selection was a bit of a surprise to some, some Texas Democrats told NBC 5 they’re hopeful he’ll convince moderate and conservative voters to take another look.
Delegates say much of his appeal at the national convention is due to his personal qualities. To balance a field led by a former San Francisco prosecutor, Democrats turned to a retired high school teacher and football coach who grew up in small-town Nebraska.
“We’ve got an old football coach and a guy who loves to hunt. We love the Friday Night Lights in Texas. This is a great ticket,” said Rep. Trey Martinez Fischer (D-San Antonio), a delegate to the convention and chairman of the Texas House caucus.
Walz has served as the top executive in the non-battleground state of Minnesota for the past five years, and Rep. Julie Johnson (D-Farmers Branch) said she didn’t know much about him before he was selected as Harris’ running mate.
“I’ve really enjoyed learning about him, reading about him, listening to him. I think he really represents Texas values and I think a lot of Texas voters identify with him,” Johnson said. “I also think his character is very important. We have to make decisions in this country about ethics and character and about someone who’s been convicted of 34 felonies.”
Other Chicago Democrats support policies he pushed for as governor, including expanded background checks for gun sales and “red flag” laws that would allow guns to be confiscated from people courts find unstable.
Would that be too far for the Texan?
“I don’t think that’s far-fetched for Texans at all. The vast majority of Texans I’ve spoken to in my district in my city are very supportive of smart, sensible solutions like background checks,” said Dallas City Councilman Omar Narvaez, who represents Dallas.
Over the next few weeks, Walz will travel the country and debate Sen. J.D. Vance (R-Ohio), who former President Trump picked as his running mate at last month’s party convention.
