President Biden’s “border czar,” Vice President Kamala Harris, has chosen Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate. Walz, known for his soft stance on illegal immigration, has supported efforts to turn Minnesota into a sanctuary state and has backed various policies catering to undocumented migrants.
In a statement to CBS News in 2018, Walz expressed his belief that local law enforcement should not be responsible for enforcing federal immigration laws, stating that their role is to enforce state and local laws. He has signed legislation in Minnesota to provide taxpayer-funded aid for illegal migrants, including access to college tuition, healthcare, and driver’s licenses.
As governor, Walz has signed laws that limit or deny local law enforcement cooperation with federal immigration authorities, earning Minnesota the unofficial title of a “sanctuary state.” He has also supported state-funded healthcare, driver’s licenses, and free college tuition for illegal migrants, emphasizing the importance of road safety and inclusivity for all residents.
Walz has been vocal in his opposition to former President Donald Trump’s border policies, applauding efforts to pull state troops from the southern border and criticizing the construction of a border wall. He has advocated for investing in technology and personnel at the border instead of physical barriers.
Harris’ formal announcement of Walz as her vice presidential pick is expected at a campaign event in Philadelphia, where the duo will appear together for the first time. Harris, who has led the Biden administration’s efforts to address illegal immigration, has faced criticism for her approach to the issue, including supporting the decriminalization of illegal immigration and making controversial comparisons between ICE officers and the KKK.
Before serving as governor, Walz had a long military career in the Army National Guard and a decade in the House of Representatives. His selection as Harris’ running mate reflects a continued focus on immigration policy within the Biden administration and the Democratic Party.
Overall, Walz’s alignment with Harris on immigration issues signals a commitment to progressive policies that prioritize inclusivity and support for undocumented migrants. As the Biden administration continues to address the challenges at the southern border, the partnership between Harris and Walz may shape the future of immigration policy in the United States.