In the days she was vetting Josh Shapiro, a rising star and very popular governor of Pennsylvania (the state Kamala Harris must win to become president), there was serious pushback from some of the party’s deep thinkers and interest groups. The most divisive issue in the Democratic Party – just as it is for Labor in Australia – is Israel and the war in Gaza. Shapiro is a staunch supporter of Israel. With US backing, Israel may be in a regional war with Lebanon and Iran in coming days. This is a crisis that would take a political toll.

At this very moment, was there a safer choice than Shapiro? Harris concluded there was, and chose Tim Walz, the governor of Minnesota and 12-year veteran of the House of Representatives. A happy warrior for the middle class in the spirit of the legendary Hubert Humphrey, who served as vice president to Lyndon Johnson. A safe, steady and reliable asset to Harris.

Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris and her new running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz.Credit: AP

Harris’ decision came down to the same defining judgment this choice always requires: the private discussion on how closely they will work together. Can the man I am talking to be the most able vice president, who can step in and execute the office in a heartbeat if........

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