By Stephanie Kelly
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz's 17-year-old son stole the show at the Democratic National Convention by leaping to his feet in tears and clapping as his father accepted the party's nomination for vice president. Gus' emotional reaction instantly went viral on social media, capturing the hearts of viewers.
As Walz spoke, Gus stood up, sobbing and pointing at the stage, exclaiming, "That's my dad," creating a powerful and enduring image from the speech. The Democratic nominee Kamala Harris' campaign is leveraging Walz's Midwestern appeal and his embodiment of modern masculinity to attract undecided and independent voters in the upcoming election.
The support for Walz and his family was evident as they all joined him on stage, including his wife Gwen and other children. Gus gave his father a heartfelt hug at the conclusion of the speech, showcasing the strong bond within the family.
During his speech in Chicago, Walz expressed his love for his family, acknowledging their importance in his life. In an interview with People magazine, he and Gwen shared that Gus, who has a non-verbal learning disorder, ADHD, and an anxiety disorder, possesses what they refer to as his "secret power" - his brilliance.
Overall, the emotional display by Gus Walz highlights the personal side of political figures and serves as a reminder of the humanity behind the public personas. This touching moment resonated with viewers across the nation, showcasing the power of family and love in the midst of a political event.