Tim Walz tells Jimmy Kimmel the unusual name he used to save Harris' number in his phone's contacts
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Minnesota Governor Tim Walz recently appeared on 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' where he shared a hilarious and unexpected story involving Vice President Kamala Harris, according to The Independent.
During the candid conversation, Walz revealed the unusual contact name he has saved in his phone for Harris, a humorous detail that has garnered attention as the Democratic ticket continues its media blitz ahead of the upcoming election.
Tim Walz reveals he initially missed Kamala Harris' call about being her running mate
Governor Tim Walz, billed by Jimmy Kimmel as “America’s sweetheart”, shared a lighthearted moment when he recalled how he almost missed a significant phone call from Kamala Harris.
In early August, Harris had called him to offer the vice-presidential spot on her ticket, a call that could have changed the course of his career — but one that Walz initially missed.
“In typical me-fashion, I missed it,” Walz said with a laugh, admitting that he didn’t realize the importance of the call at the time.
Walz was among the final contenders being considered for the vice presidential nomination. After extensive vetting at Harris’s official residence in Washington, DC, it was time for the Democratic presidential candidate to offer him the role.
However, when she phoned him with the big news, Walz didn’t pick up.
“It was an unmarked number, so I’m thinking it’s like a car warranty thing,” he explained, recounting the confusion of seeing an unknown caller. It wasn’t until one of Harris’ high-ranking aides contacted him that Walz realized what was happening.
“I got a call from a high-ranking aide, and they said, ‘Pick up your dang phone,’” Walz told the audience, drawing laughter from both Kimmel and the crowd.
The governor’s accidental brush-off of the vice president’s offer has since become an amusing anecdote in his political journey, a reminder of the unpredictability of high-stakes moments in politics.
Tim Walz spills the beans on his name for Kamala Harris on his phone
As the conversation with Tim Walz progressed, the late-night host couldn’t resist asking if Harris' name was now properly saved in Walz’s phone's contacts to ensure such a mishap wouldn’t happen again.
“She is,” Walz confirmed, much to Kimmel’s delight. But the real kicker came when Walz revealed the not-so-secret name he uses for Harris on his phone, “My dry cleaner.”
The audience erupted in laughter as did Kimmel, who then teased Walz about his unusual choice of pseudonym for the Vice President.
When asked why he chose such a quirky contact name, Walz admitted, “They told me to come up with something, and that was all I could think of.”
The anecdote, though lighthearted, gave a rare peek into the camaraderie between Walz and Harris. The Minnesota Governor went on to praise Harris, highlighting the rapport they’ve built over time.
“We get on really well, she’s amazing, she makes me laugh,” Walz said. He then offered a broader reflection on leadership, adding, “And, by the way, I think the president should know how to laugh, not at someone but with things.”
