To the editor: Vice President Kamala Harris has already expressed a powerful and hopeful resolve in the negatively worded slogan, “We’re not going back.” But where is the message that says where we want to go? (“Tim Walz, little known outside Minnesota just weeks ago, is Harris’s pick for running mate,” August 6).
Now that the Democratic nominee has chosen Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate, the campaign is geared toward delivering a positive message. Start with a more collaborative verb, like “seek,” as in “find common ground.”
Walz seems the embodiment of Midwestern values. He is originally from Nebraska and has a long history of military service. He is a former high school teacher and football coach.
Indeed, Harris has invited the American middle class to sit at the table.
Voters are hungry for a message of unity. Let’s not back down. Harris has already said she will sign the bipartisan immigration bill that her opponent blocked in the Senate. That’s a start.
Now, a call to all of us to roll up our sleeves and work together. Together, we will find a better way forward for America.
Robert Fox, Los Angeles
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To the editor: In 2010, I had the privilege of meeting Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro in person when he was kind enough to meet with me at a downtown Pittsburgh hotel along with his Chief of Staff to discuss state government issues.
At the time, Shapiro was an up-and-coming state representative from Abington, Pennsylvania, and I always had the feeling he was a leader who would rise beyond that level.
I am disappointed that our governor was not chosen as Harris' running mate. I believe he would have energized the electorate and helped deliver our battleground state to the Democrats. I hope he did not make a mistake by choosing someone who until recently was unknown outside of his state and who does not project dynamism or youth.
I'll look on the bright side: Pennsylvania will continue to reap the benefits of having a true man of the people to lead us for at least another two and a half years.
Oren Spiegler, Peters Township, Pennsylvania.
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To the editor: Harris has chosen her running mate exactly right.
With a deep pool of talented Democrats to choose from, Walz brings a lot to the ticket without taking anything away. Harris's judgment deserves applause.
The unexpected benefit of this contest, with President Biden dropping out of the race so late, is the stark revelation that 18-month campaigns are counterproductive, serving mostly the media and leaving the electorate dazed and confused. Three or four months is more than enough.
Let's focus on November.
Bart Braverman, Indian
