DNC 2024 Day 3 live updates: Walz tells Democrats to 'leave it on the field'

Walz introduced himself to the country and touted his accomplishments.

Last Updated: August 22, 2024, 12:09 AM EDT

The third night of the Democratic National Convention continued the themes of joy and freedom.

A who's who of speakers, including a surprise speech from Oprah Winfrey, headlined the night aimed to showcase vice presidential nominee Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz.

"Coach Walz" brought his energy to the crowd touting his and Vice President Kamala Harris' vision for the future of the country.

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    Aug 21, 2024, 11:49 PM EDT

    Walz did his job in his convention speech.

    He touted his own background, rattling through his experience in the Army National Guard and as a high school teacher.

    "It was those players and my students who inspired me to run for Congress. They saw in me what I hoped to instill in them: a commitment to the common good," he said.

    He also promoted his policy accomplishments, garnering particularly loud applause for his policy providing free breakfast and lunch in Minnesota public schools.

    Walz said that while Republicans were banning books in schools, "we were banishing hunger in ours."

    Minnesota Governor and 2024 Democratic vice presidential candidate Tim Walz speaks on Day 3 of the Democratic National Convention at the United Center in Chicago, Aug. 21, 2024.
    Saul Loeb/AFP via Getty Images

    And then, he served the duty of a loyal No. 2 -- boosting his boss.

    "If you're a middle class family or a family trying to get into the middle class, Kamala Harris is going to cut your taxes," he said. "If you're hoping to buy a home, Kamala Harris is going to help make it more affordable."

    And then, in true "Friday Night Lights" fashion, he issued a call to action with a football metaphor.

    "We're down a field goal, but we're on offense and we've got the ball," he said before touting Harris as the team leader. "We're driving down the field, and boy, do we have the right team."

    Aug 21, 2024, 11:46 PM EDT

    Walz's son in tears during speech

    As Walz gave his acceptance speech, his son Gus was spotted in tears listening to his father speak. His daughter Hope was seen holding up a heart to him.

    The Walz family joined him on stage after he wrapped up his remarks.

    Gus Walz cries as Democratic vice presidential nominee Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz speaks during the Democratic National Convention, Aug. 21, 2024, in Chicago.
    Matt Rourke/AP

    Minnesota Governor and 2024 Democratic vice presidential candidate Tim Walz's son Gus (L) and daughter Hope (2nd L) react as he speaks on Day 3 of the Democratic National Convention at the United Center in Chicago, Aug. 21, 2024.
    Andrew Caballero-reynolds/AFP via Getty Images

    Aug 21, 2024, 11:40 PM EDT

    Walz tells Democrats to 'leave it on the field'

    "We got 76 days. That's nothing. There'll be time to sleep when you're dead," he said to cheers. "We’re gonna leave it all on the field. That’s how we’ll keep moving forward."

    Democratic vice presidential nominee Minnesota Governor Tim Walz takes the stage on Day 3 of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, Aug. 21, 2024.
    Elizabeth Frantz/Reuters

    Aug 21, 2024, 11:38 PM EDT

    Walz wants you to clip this message and send it to 'undecided' relatives

    "I think we owe it to the American people to tell them exactly what she'd do as president before we ask them for their votes," he said. "So here’s the part you clip and save and send to that undecided relatives."

    Minnesota Governor and Democratic vice presidential candidate Tim Walz speaks on Day 3 of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, on Aug. 21, 2024.
    Mandel Ngan/AFP via Getty Images

    Walz continued, "If you’re a middle-class family or a family trying to get into the middle class, Kamala Harris is gonna cut your taxes. If you’re getting squeezed by the price of your prescription drugs, Kamala Harris is gonna take on Big Pharma. If you’re hoping to buy a home, Kamala Harris is gonna help make it more affordable. And no matter who you are, Kamala Harris is gonna stand up and fight for your freedom to live the life you want to lead."