On the third night of the Democratic National Convention, Tim Walz, the Democratic vice presidential nominee, delivered a commanding and impassioned speech that captivated the audience and underscored why Kamala Harris selected him as her running mate. CNN anchor Jake Tapper described Walz’s address as a “barn burner,” highlighting the enthusiasm it sparked among attendees who waved signs reading, “Coach Walz.”
Other panelists noted that Walz’s speech was deeply relatable, resonating with people across the nation—from urban centers to rural communities, effectively addressing the economic hardships faced under the Biden administration, striving to connect with voters beyond just listing accomplishments.
“If you are a middle-class family or a family trying to enter the middle class, Kamala Harris is going to cut your taxes,” Walz said. “No matter who you are, Kamala Harris will stand up and fight for your freedom to live the life you want. Because that is what we want for ourselves and for our neighbors.”
“That is what this is all about—the responsibility we have to our children, to each other, and to the future we are building together, where everyone is free to create the life they want,” Walz added.
During his speech, Walz denounced Donald Trump and JD Vance, linking them to the conservative Project 2025, a controversial policy blueprint developed by The Heritage Foundation. Walz accused Trump and Vance of promoting an agenda that would worsen the difficulties faced by everyday Americans. He dismissed their attempts to distance themselves from the project, asserting that such plans are designed to benefit only the wealthy and extreme elements of society.
“Not everyone shares the same sense of responsibility. Some folks don’t understand what it takes to be a good neighbor. Take Donald Trump and JD Vance. Their Project 2025 will make things much harder for people just trying to live their lives,” he said.
Walz, a former high school football coach and current Minnesota governor, used football metaphors to illustrate his vision for a Democratic victory in November. He closed his speech with a powerful metaphor: “We are in the fourth quarter, down by a field goal, but we are on offense,” Walz declared, rallying support for Kamala Harris. He emphasized the need for relentless effort, comparing the campaign to a football game where progress is made inch by inch.
The vice presidential nominee outlined Harris’s plans, including tax cuts for the middle class and measures to make homeownership more accessible. Walz highlighted Harris’s commitment to fighting for affordable housing, citing her recent proposals aimed at supporting first-time homebuyers and increasing affordable rental options.
Concluding with a rallying cry for the Harris-Walz campaign, Walz led the crowd in chanting, “We’re not going back!”—a slogan that encapsulates their vision for change and progress.
Watch the clips below:
Here's some of what's at risk if Trump gets back in the White House- higher taxes on the middle class, gutting Social Security, and repealing the Affordable Care Act, says @Tim_Walz #DNCConvention2024 https://t.co/OrYwWtJxPM pic.twitter.com/RIDfyQCm31
— EPI Action (@EPIaction) August 22, 2024
"If you've never experienced the hell that is infertility… I can guarantee you, you know someone who has"
VP nominee Tim Walz addresses the IVF treatment his wife has undergone to conceive their daughter, Hope
Live updates 🇺🇸➡️ https://t.co/Q5zJ4kDuqC
📺 Sky 501 pic.twitter.com/VBQyuIFe53
— Sky News (@SkyNews) August 22, 2024
Gov. Tim Walz on Project 2025
“They’ve spent a lot of time pretending they know nothing about this. But look, I coached high school football long enough to know, and trust me on this, when somebody takes the time to draw up a playbook, they’re going to use it.” pic.twitter.com/sVtZ15Fi3s
— MSNBC (@MSNBC) August 22, 2024