In a surprising turn of events, Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris has selected Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate, sparking debates within the party and raising questions about her decision-making abilities.

The announcement has left many observers comparing the pick to an NFL draft where a player is chosen three rounds too high based on their impressive combine performance but lacks actual football skills.

Despite some appealing qualities such as being non-lawyer and representing the white-working class through his teaching and coaching background, there are concerns about the thoroughness of Walz's vetting process. The campaign hopes there are no further revelations about his past that could become distractions during the election.

One positive aspect is that Walz's progressive stance aligns with Harris's own ideology, ensuring that attacks against her as being too progressive for swing voters are less effective.

However, the selection has also sparked discussions about Harris's leadership style and her commitment to democracy. While some view her decision as a sign of wisdom and practicality, others see it as an indication of weakness and susceptibility to pressure from within her coalition.

The choice of Walz highlights the diverse nature of the Democratic party and its need to balance various factions within the coalition. Harris's decision to prioritize progressive preferences may have been driven by her desire to maintain unity within her coalition and avoid internal dissent.

The pick also sheds light on the evolving identity of progressivism within the Democratic party. Walz does not fit the stereotypical mold of either big-government liberalism or campus radical identitarianism. Instead, he represents a different brand of progressivism that could potentially reshape the party's direction.

The decision has not been without criticism, with some Never Trump-types expressing disappointment and favoring Harris's initial consideration, Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro. However, it is important to remember that coalition politics often involve compromises and not always getting one's preferred choice.

As Harris embarks on her presidential campaign with Walz by her side, the focus now shifts to the impact this decision will have on her chances in the election and the future direction of the Democratic party.