Duluth business leaders highlight economic potential with Walz on Presidential Ticket

DULUTH, Minn. (Northern News Now) — Newfound national attention to the state of Minnesota has some Northland business and city leaders excited for what’s to come.

Vice President Kamala Harris recently announced Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate months before the November presidential election.

RELATED: Harris introduces new running mate Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as the ‘vice president America deserves’

While the nation’s eyes are focusing on the Minnesota Governor, many Northland lobbyists say the newfound attention could lead to new opportunities.

“He has always been receptive to our needs in northeast Minnesota, Duluth region, and beyond,” said Dan Fanning, the Executive Director of the Duluth Chamber Foundation.

Fanning has spent a lot of his career lobbying at the Capitol in hopes of bringing funding to Duluth’s major projects. Fanning said that Walz has always been open and understanding to the needs of the Northland.

“Whether you agree with him or not, he is in a really influential position to help continue to serve the state of Minnesota,” Fanning said.

With Walz now attracting eyes to the Midwest, Fanning said this is a great time to highlight Duluth’s economic potential.

“People will be looking at Minnesota differently really trying to understand Tim Walz’s background, but also then learning opportunities and challenges the state had over the last few years,” Fanning said.

“It will emphasize things like the bridge and how they brought it here, and probably the relationship between Superior and Duluth a little bit,” said Dr. Cindy Rugeley, a UMD political analyst.

Rugeley said with Walz in the national spotlight, many voters will be taking time to analyze what he has done in Minnesota as governor.

“What policies have happened, you know, what’s going on in the state,” Rugeley said. “I say some people will like what’s happening, and other people won’t.”

Many of Duluth’s city and business leaders noted that the attention could bring a boost to tourism and awareness to the Northland’s needs.

We also reached out to Mayor Roger Reinert, hoping to hear his thoughts on the decision. He responded with a statement that said:

“I’ve known Governor Walz for years – well before he was Governor. I’ve appreciated our opportunities to work together, and more importantly our friendship. I was a strong supporter when he first ran for Governor because of his rural upbringing, his background in education, and his military experience. His years of experience now at the executive level will be a significant benefit. I know he will work hard to bring greater Minnesota, upper Midwest, and veteran values to the ticket and the campaign trail.”

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