Vice Presidential Candidate Tim Walz at State Fair

Walz greets fairgoers and eats a pork chop in Falcon Heights on September 1, 2024, with Homeland Security present

Minnesota State Fair — Falcon Heights, MN

Tim Walz appeared at the Minnesota State Fair in Falcon Heights on September 1, 2024, weeks after being named Kamala Harris's running mate on the Democratic presidential ticket. As Minnesota's sitting governor in the middle of his second term, Walz was already a familiar presence at the fair, which draws more than a million visitors over its twelve-day run each August and September.

The State Fair has served as a campaign stop for Minnesota politicians for generations, and the 2024 visit carried more weight than a routine gubernatorial appearance. Walz worked the crowds in a "Minnesota Grown" cap, ate a pork chop at one of the fair's most recognized food stands, and greeted fairgoers in the style he had made familiar across two terms in office. Homeland Security officers were posted nearby, a visible sign of the Secret Service protection that now accompanied him as a national candidate.

Not everyone at the fairgrounds was there to welcome him. A man near an Amy Klobuchar campaign banner held a "Never Walz" sign, a reminder that Minnesota, though reliably Democratic in presidential elections, still contained vocal opposition. Klobuchar was herself on the ballot that year, running for Senate reelection, and her presence in the same space underscored how much of the state's Democratic apparatus was operating at once.

The Harris-Walz ticket went on to lose the November 2024 election to Donald Trump and JD Vance. Walz returned to the governorship, where he remains in office.

Tim Walz greets a fairgoer wearing a Minnesota Grown cap at the Minnesota State Fair.
September 1, 2024 — Tim Walz, Minnesota's governor and the 2024 Democratic vice presidential nominee, appeared at the Minnesota State Fair on September 1, 2024. The fair, held annually in Falcon Heights, draws more than a million visitors over its twelve-day run and is one of the largest state fairs in the country. Minnesota governors have long made appearances there, a tradition tied to the fair's role as a stop for statewide and national candidates during election years.
Governor Tim Walz eats a pork chop at the Minnesota State Fair on September 1, 2024.
September 1, 2024 — Governor Tim Walz engages with attendees while holding a pork chop at the Minnesota State Fair on September 1, 2024. The Minnesota State Fair, held annually in Falcon Heights, is one of the largest state fairs in the United States. It serves as a significant cultural and agricultural event for the state, showcasing livestock, agricultural products, and entertainment. The fair's history dates back to 1854, and it continues to be a major gathering place for Minnesotans.
Governor Tim Walz at the Minnesota State Fair on Sept 1, 2024, wearing a "Minnesota Grown" cap and holding tickets.
September 1, 2024 — Governor Tim Walz, wearing a "Minnesota Grown" cap, interacts with fairgoers at the Minnesota State Fair on September 1, 2024. He is holding tickets or receipts in his hand. The Minnesota State Fair is a major annual event held in Falcon Heights, showcasing agriculture and entertainment. This image was taken during the 2024 Minnesota State Fair, a significant cultural and economic event for the state. Governor Walz's presence highlights the fair's role as a platform for public engagement and a reflection of Minnesota's agricultural heritage. The fair is a key fixture in the state's calendar, drawing large crowds and featuring a wide array of exhibits and activities.
Tim Walz during Vice Presidential Run
September 1, 2024 — Tim Walz, then Governor of Minnesota, waves to a crowd at the Minnesota State Fair. Walz was campaigning during the 2024 presidential election cycle as a candidate for Vice President.
Homeland Security at Minnesota State Fair
September 1, 2024 — A Homeland Security officer stands guard outside a food stand at the Minnesota State Fair prior to the anticipated appearance of Vice Presidential Candidate and then-Minnesota Governor Tim Walz.
Harris Walz hat at Minnesota State Fair
September 1, 2024 — A woman wears a "Harris Walz" hat while looking at her phone at the Minnesota State Fair in September 2024 as Vice Presidential candidate and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz makes an appearance.
Man holds a "Never Walz" sign near an Amy Klobuchar banner at the Minnesota State Fair.
September 1, 2024 — A man holds a "Never Walz" sign near an Amy Klobuchar campaign banner at the Minnesota State Fair. Tim Walz, Minnesota's governor, was serving his second term and running as the Democratic vice presidential nominee alongside Kamala Harris in the 2024 election. The Minnesota State Fair, held annually in Falcon Heights, draws more than a million visitors over its 12-day run and has long been a stop for statewide candidates. Klobuchar, Minnesota's senior U.S. senator, was on the ballot for reelection that same year.

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