Debate exposes Tim Walz as a deceptive ‘everyman’

If Donald Trump wins this election, the analysis of Kamala Harris’ campaign should include her selection of Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate as a key mistake. 

Walz’s performance at the vice-presidential debate introduced much of America to him for the first time.

Unlike his scripted appearance at the Democratic National Convention, Walz’s unfiltered demeanor during the debate highlighted his overt lack of authenticity. 

One glaring issue was his repeated use of the “Coach Walz” persona, which he emphasized once again during the debate.

Being an assistant volunteer coach is not particularly noteworthy, yet Walz consistently fails to mention this part of his title when presenting himself as a coaching figure. 

Furthermore, his attempt at a quirky ’80s-sitcom-dad act, aimed at being charming and relatable, instead comes off as cringeworthy, similar to Kamala’s strained accents. 

For instance, his response to being questioned about his incorrect claim of being in Hong Kong during the Tiananmen Square protests when he was actually in Nebraska was evasive. 

His prolonged response failed to address the core issue and left moderator Margaret Brennan pressing him for a clear response. 

His vague statement and admission of mistakes does little to erase the fact that he blatantly lied about his past actions and whereabouts. 

Walz’s actions and statements reveal his fundamental phoniness, which was further highlighted in his closing remarks at the debate. 

He attempted to portray Kamala Harris as a transformative figure, espousing a politics of joy and real solutions for the middle class, despite the current administration’s economic struggles. 

His selection as a running mate was based on his Midwestern, everyman appeal, which the Democratic strategists believed would appeal to blue-collar male voters in crucial swing states.

However, Walz’s popularity in the heartland is waning, as shown by recent polls.

His favorability among voters in key states is declining, particularly among men, due to his perceived lack of authenticity. 

After avoiding the media for weeks and delivering a lackluster debate performance, it is likely that Walz’s exposure as insincere will impact his future visibility before the election. 

Joe Concha is the author of “Progressively Worse: Why Today’s Democrats Ain’t Your Daddy’s Donkeys.”