Shortly after the 2022 midterm elections, the political landscape appeared to be firmly established: President Biden was poised to be the Democratic nominee for the 2024 election, with Vice President Kamala Harris standing by his side. However, in the heart of Minnesota, Governor Tim Walz had just guided his party to impressive victories and began contemplating a different trajectory—one where his Midwestern appeal could play a crucial role on the national stage, potentially even on a presidential ticket.
To this end, the straightforward and relatable Mr. Walz, alongside his team, devised a strategy to elevate his profile in the national political discourse. According to a source familiar with the planning, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to protect the sensitive nature of the discussions, they aimed to gradually insert him into the conversation, leveraging state party dinners and appearances on cable news. Their approach was distinctly characterized by an ethos of Minnesota Nice, ensuring that few within the Democratic Party would anticipate their strategic maneuvers.
This well-crafted plan quickly garnered attention and thrust Mr. Walz into the public eye over a whirlwind fortnight. He transitioned from a relatively obscure governor in a predominantly blue state to one of the most compelling and influential figures within his party. His unique approach, combined with a fortuitous turn of events, positioned him favorably for the coveted vice-presidential nomination—outpacing rising stars from key battleground states and even some progressive favorites.
Ultimately, Mr. Walz achieved what his team had meticulously worked towards for the past 18 months: he went viral. As his profile surged, he maintained an unwavering sense of loyalty, humility, and optimism in his private discussions with Ms. Harris and her team about the future.
However, beneath the surface of this Midwestern politeness lay a careful and strategic political acumen. In early 2023, his political aides initiated a focused effort to refine his messaging and highlight his legislative achievements. They aggressively promoted him to a variety of platforms, including podcasters, journalists, donors, and grassroots activists. By the summer, his team successfully branded his progressive initiatives as “the Minnesota Miracle,” a testament to his commitment to effective governance and innovative policymaking.
