CHICAGO, Ill. (GRAY) – Minnesota has been thrust into an important position at this year’s Democratic National Convention, especially after Governor Tim Walz’s elevation a vice presidential candidate.

Prior to Walz’s appointment as Harris’s running mate, the North Star State already played a big role in national Democratic politics. Walz is the chair of the Democratic Governor’s Association, Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan is the Chair of the Democratic Lieutenant Governor’s Association, and DFL Chair Ken Martin serves as a Vice Chair in the DNC.

Prominent Minnesota Democrats gathered for breakfast Tuesday in Chicago, as speakers addressed the energy among the state’s delegation.

“People outside of sort of the insiders in politics are starting to see what we have in Minnesota, with Tim Walz and all of our wonderful elected officials and the great story of success,” Martin said.

Martin and other DFLers say that Walz’s name on the Democratic ticket has enthused voters statewide. Martin is optimistic that energy will translate to results in November.

“He’s talked about on a national stage now; that should definitely help not only bring voters out, but it should help those voters vote all the way down the ballot for DFL candidates,” he said.

Lawmakers are well aware of the implications an energy like that can have. Minnesota Senate Majority Leader Erin Murphy, also at the Minnesota delegation, says she’s optimistic about the upcoming election given what she’s seen.

“[I] think Governor Walz on the ticket is going to create more enthusiasm and more engagement in the election, which will impact our races, both in the senate, in our special election, and in the house,” she said.

Minnesota Republicans think the national attention could have the opposite effect.

“There’s a heightened level of scrutiny on him, his record, and the things he’s said over the years, and I think one of the impacts that might have on some of the down ballot races, is causing voters to question what they thought they know about him,” said Minnesota State Senator Zach Duckworth (R-Lakeville) said.

Walz is expected to address the convention Wednesday night.

Copyright 2024 KTTC. All rights reserved.