The choice of JD Vance as VP candidate disappoints, while the choice of Tim Walz delights.

One of the most important decisions a presidential candidate makes is the choice of a running mate. This decision is paramount since the potential future vice president is truly one heartbeat away once the inauguration takes place.

The GOP has floundered before with vice presidential picks. The late Senator John McCain’s choice of Sarah Palin was ineffective and former President Trump’s choice is equally as disappointing. Senator JD Vance wasn’t in the senate long enough to distinguish himself and certainly does not seem ready to run the country. His breadth of political experience is lacking and his support of Donald Trump for his own political gain is troubling. No one criticized Trump more than Vance who likened him to Hitler.

On the other hand, VP Harris’s selection of Governor Tim Walz for presumptive Vice President is refreshing and welcomed. Governor Walz has executive experience, has been in the House of Representatives and is a veteran. He is a former educator and football coach. He has distinguished himself as the type of leader that works in a bipartisan fashion. Governor Walz enabled paid family leave, gun safety laws, universal school lunches, and support for civil and women’s reproductive rights.

As we approach November, we all must strongly consider what vision for America we would like to enjoy going forward. Is it a vision that includes policies that make people’s lives better or a vision that desires to move the country backwards?

Vote and choose wisely!

This letter originally appeared in the Bucks County Beacon.