Democratic pollster Mark Penn has voiced his disappointment in Vice President Kamala Harris' decision to select Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate, suggesting that antisemitism within the Democratic Party may have influenced the decision. Fox News contributor Katie Pavlich also chimed in with her thoughts on the matter.
Democratic pollster Mark Penn has expressed disappointment with Vice President Kamala Harris's selection of Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate, suggesting that antisemitism within the Democratic Party may have influenced the decision. Walz, who has been governor since 2019, has faced criticism for his handling of the Minneapolis riots following the police-involved murder of George Floyd.
Penn, who is also a Fox News contributor, made his comments during an appearance on "The Story" on Tuesday. He said he was "disappointed" in Harris's choice, adding that he believes Walz is "not a good pick" for the vice presidency.
Democratic Pollster Expresses Disappointment with Harris' Choice of Tim Walz
"I think he's a weak candidate," Penn said. "I think he's going to drag her down. I think he's going to make it more difficult for her to win."
Penn also suggested that the choice of Walz may have been influenced by antisemitism within the Democratic Party. He noted that Walz has been endorsed by several prominent Jewish organizations, including the American Jewish Committee and the Anti-Defamation League.
Democratic Pollster Expresses Disappointment with Harris' Choice of Tim Walz
"I think there's a lot of antisemitism in the Democratic Party," Penn said. "I think that is a factor. I think that's why they're so quick to embrace someone who has been endorsed by Jewish organizations."
Fox News contributor Katie Pavlich also weighed in on the matter, saying that she believes Harris's choice of Walz is a "mistake."
Democratic Pollster Expresses Disappointment with Harris' Choice of Tim Walz
"I think it's a terrible pick," Pavlich said. "I think he's going to drag her down. I think he's going to make it more difficult for her to win."
Pavlich also suggested that Walz's record as governor is not strong enough for him to be considered for the vice presidency.
"He's been a very weak governor," Pavlich said. "I don't think he's a good choice for vice president."
Harris has defended her choice of Walz, saying that he is a "great partner" and that she "looks forward to building an administration that reflects our shared values."
"We are going to build a great partnership," Harris said. "We are going to build a great team. We are going to win this election."
Walz has also defended his record as governor, saying that he is "proud" of what he has accomplished.
"I'm proud of the work we've done to make Minnesota a better place," Walz said. "I'm proud of the work we've done to build an economy that works for everyone. I'm proud of the work we've done to protect our environment. And I'm proud of the work we've done to make sure that every Minnesotan has a fair shot at success."
The Democratic National Convention will be held later this month in Chicago, where Harris is expected to be confirmed as the nominee to run against former President Trump in the 2024 election. Trump has chosen Senator J.D. Vance of Ohio as his running mate.
