Tim Walz to Campaign Solo as Kamala Harris Skips Firefighters Union Event
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Minnesota Governor Tim Walz is set to campaign without Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris this week as he addresses the International Association of Firefighters (IAFF), a union with hundreds of thousands of members that has yet to endorse a candidate for the 2024 presidential election.
Harris’ running mate, Walz, is expected to speak at the IAFF convention in Boston on Wednesday, according to a report by NBC News. While the union endorsed Joe Biden in 2020, it has not yet made an endorsement for the upcoming election, leaving the field open as the campaign season intensifies.
Edward Kelly, the president of the IAFF, has indicated that the union’s leadership will decide on an endorsement only after thoroughly surveying their members to understand the key issues driving the campaign. This approach reflects the union’s commitment to ensuring that any endorsement aligns with the priorities and concerns of its membership.
Walz’s solo appearance at the convention highlights the importance of the event, as the IAFF represents a significant voting bloc within the labor community. The union’s eventual endorsement could have a considerable impact on the 2024 race, especially given its history of political involvement and influence.
As Walz steps into the spotlight without Harris, his ability to connect with union members and address their concerns could play a crucial role in gaining support for the Democratic ticket. The decision to campaign separately also underscores the strategic moves being made by the Harris-Walz campaign as they work to secure key endorsements and build momentum leading up to the election. With the union yet to declare its support, all eyes will be on Walz’s speech and the reception it receives from the IAFF members, potentially shaping the union’s decision in the weeks to come.
