Reno, NV — On Tuesday, October 8, Democratic vice presidential nominee Tim Walz, the governor of Minnesota, made his highly anticipated return to Reno, Nevada, marking his second visit to the battleground state. The day included an exclusive fundraising reception followed by a public rally at the Grand Sierra Resort, where Walz aimed to galvanize support for presidential nominee Kamala Harris.

Walz’s initial trip to Reno was marred by the devastating Davis Fire, which led to the cancellation of a planned rally on September 9. However, the governor made a point to visit first responders battling the blaze and promised to return for a proper campaign event, a promise he fulfilled this week.

Upon arriving in Reno at 4:25 p.m., Walz was warmly welcomed at the airport by representatives from four northern Nevada tribes, including the Yerington Paiute Tribe and the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe. Nevada Democratic Party chairwoman Daniele Monroe-Moreno also greeted him.

At the private campaign reception in south Reno, Walz addressed supporters, emphasizing the importance of unity in a divided nation. “Thanks for pausing your lives for a moment to believe that our politics can be bigger,” he told the crowd, who erupted in cheers while holding signs that read “Coach!” and donning “Harris Walz” camo hats.

Walz drew on a personal anecdote with Vice President Kamala Harris, recalling a campaign stop where she reminded him of the importance of working hard for everyone, including those on the other side of the political spectrum. He then discussed the election process, stating, “We know how this works… except for Donald Trump.” This led to a poignant moment as Walz revealed new allegations against the former president, linking him to communications with Russian President Vladimir Putin during the pandemic.

His 18-minute speech covered various topics, from misinformation to immigration and climate change, resonating deeply with the audience. Walz concluded his address with an emotional reading of a story shared by a dying friend about casting a final vote to protect the values of honesty, integrity, and compassion. By the end of his reading, many in the crowd were visibly moved, some wiping away tears.

Walz’s next stop, the Grand Sierra Resort, buzzed with energy as supporters packed the Silver State Pavilion Ballroom. Before Walz’s appearance, actor Ed Helms, known for his roles in The Hangover, delivered an impassioned opening speech, rallying attendees around the themes of unity and leadership. He echoed Walz’s sentiments about the importance of a forward-looking campaign.

After Helms, Teamsters Local 533 Vice President Andrew Rivas announced that Nevada Teamsters had unanimously endorsed Harris and Walz, reinforcing the candidates’ labor support in the state.

As Walz finally took the stage, the crowd erupted in chants of “Coach! Coach! Coach!” The atmosphere was electric as he reiterated his key messages from the earlier reception, emphasizing the campaign’s vision for a better future.

“When we fight,” Walz proclaimed, leading the audience in a rousing chant, “We win!” The evening ended on a high note, with attendees leaving energized and ready to support Harris and Walz in the days before the election.

As the campaign intensifies, Walz’s return to Nevada signals a critical moment for the Democratic ticket in a state that could play a pivotal role in the upcoming election.

Source: This is Reno