CNN’s Scott Jennings criticized Democratic Minnesota Governor Tim Walz on Sunday following a panelist’s characterization of Walz as a “consequential” choice for Vice President Kamala Harris’ running mate.
Walz and Republican Senator J.D. Vance are scheduled to engage in their inaugural debate as the selected candidates from their respective parties, which will be broadcast by CBS News on Tuesday. During the “State of the Union” program, former Harris Communications Director Ashley Etienne claimed that Vance has inflicted “more damage” on the Republican ticket, while commending Walz for his ability to bridge the “cultural divide” among voters.
“I think what I noticed about all of this there’s never been a time, that I can recall before now, where the vice presidential picks have been so consequential to the actual top of the ticket. You look at J.D. Vance was supposed to somehow expand Donald Trump’s reach, instead, he actually has done more damage, harm than good,” Etienne said.
“But you look at Governor Walz, the reason why — smart, smart pick — the reason why he was picked is to bridge the cultural divide,” Etienne continued. “To reach out to constituencies that the Democratic Party’s had problems reaching — moderate Republicans, disaffected report Republicans, independent Republicans. He’s signaling to a constituency that you can vote for this ticket. So he’s incredibly consequential to Kamala Harris — ”
CNN host Jake Tapper interjected, highlighting Jennings’ earlier laughter at Etienne’s remarks and sought his perspective on the matter. Jennings countered Etienne’s position, reproaching Walz for benefiting from a “free ride under Harris” and expressed optimism that Vance would provoke a reaction from him in the forthcoming debate.
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