Digest

The episode begins with an introduction to the new show "The Headlines" by The New York Times, hosted by Tracy Mumford, which provides a quick summary of the day's top stories. The main focus of the episode is on Tim Walls, the governor of Minnesota, who became Kamala Harris's choice for running mate. The episode discusses Walls' political career, his dual appeal to both moderate and progressive voters, and the potential risks and benefits of his selection. Ernesto Londonio, a political analyst, explains how Walls' appearances on cable news helped him land the vice presidential nomination. He discusses Walls' strategy of presenting himself as a foil to JD Vance and his appeal to both moderate and progressive voters. The episode also highlights Walls' record on issues like immigration, gun control, and his handling of the George Floyd protests, which could be used against him by the Republican campaign. The episode concludes with a brief summary of other news stories, including Hamas's consolidation of power under Yaya Sinwar and the arrest of a Pakistani man accused of plotting to assassinate US political figures.

Outlines

00:00:00

Introduction and Show Announcement

Michael Borough introduces himself and announces a new show called "The Headlines" by The New York Times, hosted by Tracy Mumford, which provides a quick summary of the day's top stories.

00:00:41

Tim Walls: The Unexpected Running Mate

Michael Borough introduces the story of Tim Walls, the governor of Minnesota, who became Kamala Harris's choice for running mate. Ernesto Londonio discusses Walls' political career, his dual appeal to both moderate and progressive voters, and the potential risks and benefits of his selection.

00:19:58

Tim Walls' Cable News Audition and Rise to Vice President

Ernesto Londonio explains how Tim Walls' appearances on cable news helped him land the vice presidential nomination. He discusses Walls' strategy of presenting himself as a foil to JD Vance and his appeal to both moderate and progressive voters.

00:31:37

Other News and Credits

A brief summary of other news stories, including Hamas's consolidation of power under Yaya Sinwar and the arrest of a Pakistani man accused of plotting to assassinate US political figures. The episode concludes with credits.

Keywords

Q&A

• What are the two main qualities that Kamala Harris was looking for in a running mate?

  Harris was looking for a running mate who could appeal to both moderate and progressive voters, someone who could bring in the white working-class voters needed in swing states while also energizing the Democratic base.

• How did Tim Walls' political career begin?

  Walls' political career began when he volunteered for the John Kerry campaign after a confrontation with security officials at a George W. Bush rally. He was inspired to run for office after attending a campaign bootcamp and was supported by his former students.

• What are some of the potential vulnerabilities that Tim Walls faces as Harris's running mate?

  Walls' record on issues like immigration, gun control, and his handling of the George Floyd protests could be used against him by the Republican campaign. They may try to portray him as a radical liberal who is out of touch with the concerns of working-class voters.

• Why did Kamala Harris ultimately choose Tim Walls over Josh Shapiro?

  Harris likely chose Walls over Shapiro because she believed he would be a more unifying figure who could appeal to a broader range of voters, particularly in the Midwest. Shapiro's stance on Israel and his criticism of campus protesters could have been divisive within the Democratic Party.

Show Notes