Governor Tim Walz: A Progressive Ally for Kamala Harris

Gov. Tim Walz of Minnesota: A Progressive Ally for Kamala Harris

Governor Tim Walz of Minnesota has emerged as a significant supporter of progressive tax policies in his home state, gaining the endorsement of prominent union leaders. His recent selection as Kamala Harris’s running mate has thrust him into the national arena, where his positions on key issues are now under the microscope.

Unlike other contenders for the vice-presidential nomination, such as Governor Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania and Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona, Walz has not faced intense scrutiny until this announcement. Here’s a closer look at his stance on vital business issues:

Taxes:

During his tenure, Minnesota has embraced a “moderately progressive tax system,” as highlighted by the Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy. As governor, Walz championed tax reductions aimed at benefiting middle- and lower-income citizens. These initiatives included rebates and a child tax credit funded by increased taxation in other areas. Notably, he implemented a 1 percent surtax on capital gains, dividends, and other investment income exceeding $1 million annually, alongside higher taxes on the overseas earnings of multinational corporations. His approach suggests a willingness to support Democratic initiatives aimed at raising taxes on the affluent to eliminate loopholes in the estate tax, although Harris’s specific views on this matter remain unclear.

Labor:

Walz has garnered significant backing from influential union figures, including Shawn Fain of the United Automobile Workers and Sara Nelson of the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA. His supporters point to a range of progressive legislation he signed into law last year, which includes:

• State-funded paid family and medical leave, enabling workers to take up to 12 weeks annually to care for a newborn or a sick family member, as well as up to 12 weeks for their own health issues, with an aggregate cap of 20 weeks for both.
• A ban on most non-compete agreements, which restrict workers’ employment opportunities.
• A prohibition against companies mandating attendance at anti-union briefings.
• Enhanced protections for workers in industries such as warehousing and nursing homes, ensuring safer working conditions.

However, one notable exception in Walz’s record is his veto of a bill aimed at establishing minimum wage standards for Uber and Lyft drivers, a decision influenced by concerns from Uber about potential operational cutbacks in the state.