Dear Reader,

When Kamala Harris selected Minnesota Governor Tim Walz to be her running mate, he won universal praise from progressives and moderates in the Democratic party. His support ranged from members of the progressive “squad” in the House, like Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, to the farthest right Democrat, Senator Joe Manchin, who praised Walz as “the real deal” and someone who could “bring balance back to the Democratic Party.” It is easy to see the broad appeal of Walz. He is a likeable Everyman with a lifetime of service as a teacher, coach, veteran, and politician. The memes and dad jokes taking social media by storm are a testament to his relatability and humility.

The policies Walz promoted in Minnesota should be similarly universally appealing to Democrats and independents. Some have already received attention. Minnesota’s free breakfast and lunch program for school children should be something every American should applaud. Protecting workers, addressing climate change, and preserving the rights of women to make their own medical decisions by codifying Roe v. Wade in the wake of the Supreme Court’s undermining of abortion rights are all policies with broad appeal.

Governor Walz has also been a leader in another area that should be embraced by moderates and progressives alike. It is Governor Walz’s outstanding record on criminal justice reform. He has spearheaded a range of proposals that help to remedy some of the worst punishment practices. Indeed, conservatives should support many of these proposals as well because they reduce recidivism and promote public safety.