When Governor Tim Walz became Vice Presidential Candidate Tim Walz, perhaps few were as excited as Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. The two have been a dynamic duo since being elected in 2018 and re-elected in 2022.
“I found out like everyone else, on television and social media,” said Lt. Flanagan. “I just burst into tears of total joy because my buddy was selected as the Vice Presidential nominee! I’m so glad the country is getting to learn about our Governor because he is the real deal,” said Flanagan.
Like many Minnesotans, Flanagan isn’t surprised. She says the humble, hardworking roots of both Presidential Candidate Harris and Walz complement each other. “Harris grew up in Oakland, in a middle-class family and Governor Walz has a similar background and went on to be a coach, a teacher and a veteran.”
Shortly after the news broke about Walz, Flanagan started making her own headlines in the Associated Press, USA Today, MSNBC, CNN and others. The media pointed out the potential of cascading historical milestones noting that if Harris becomes the first female President, Flanagan also breaks a glass ceiling becoming Minnesota’s first female Governor and the country’s first Native American Governor. Flanagan says creating opportunities for women of color has always been a hallmark of her colleague and friend, Governor Walz.
“He lifts you up. He lifts me up. He will often say, ‘I’m not an expert in that, but we’re going to talk to other people who are and create space at the table for folks who have lived experience and expertise.’ That’s one of the reasons we ran together back in 2017. He said you have lived expertise that I don’t have, but we have the same values of making sure everyone has an opportunity.”
Now, with Governor Walz turned Vice Presidential Candidate Walz, Flanagan is taking over where needed, stepping in on certain events though she talks with Walz “on the regular” as he is still serving his role as Governor.
Last week Flanagan attended the annual Minnesota Farmfest event in Morgan, Minnesota located in Redwood County southwest of the Twin Cities. The event takes place on 50 acres of land with more than 500 exhibitors and vendors dedicated to helping farmers grow their businesses and celebrating the rural lifestyle.
“I love Farmfest! I’m a big fan of the pork chop on a stick at the Farm Bureau.” Flanagan says she is incredibly proud of the work she and Governor Walz have done to support agriculture in our state. “It’s a big priority that we invest in farmers and make sure young people have the opportunity to continue the family farm or go into farming.”
When asked what the toughest part of filling in while Walz is on the campaign trail, Flanagan mentioned FOMO being at the top of her list. “I see Kamala and Tim on the road taking selfies and I’m like awe man! I know how fun he is to be with and this is his sweet spot, connecting with people and that Big Dad energy! I mean he brings extra snacks to every meeting we have together. What people are seeing, it’s the real deal!”
Flanagan also admits more public appearances require her to wear makeup most days. But she’s thrilled to be out, talking to Minnesotans and continuing the important work she and Governor Walz are already doing in our state. “I’m ready with big earrings and a bold lip anytime!”
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