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Gus Walz sat in the front row for the biggest moment of his father's life, and his pride exploded out of him.

“That's my dad!” the 17-year-old yelled. He stood, tears streaming down his face, and pointed to his father, 

accepting the Democratic nomination for vice president

 in a speech to thousands of people in a packed arena and millions more watching at home.

The teen's exuberance captured hearts and went viral, becoming perhaps the defining image of his father's address and further humanizing a running mate picked by Vice President Kamala Harris in no small part for his everyman appeal.

Gus wept through much of his father's speech, and when it was over, climbed on stage with his family and wrapped his dad in a tight bear hug, burying his face in his shoulder.

Gus is a high school senior. His parents recently disclosed to People magazine he has a non-verbal learning disorder, ADHD and an anxiety disorder. But they called his condition “his secret power” and said he’s “brilliant” and poised for success. He got his driver’s license last fall.

When Tim Walz was elected governor, Gus cheered because it meant he could get a dog. They 

Gus Walz is getting his own turn in the spotlight after his older sister, 23-year-old Hope Walz, delighted Americans with the 

‘He’s always going to be Mr. Walz’: Mankato West alumni watch former teacher accept VP nomination 

Tim Walz talks often about the fertility treatments his wife, Gwen, underwent to get pregnant with Hope, a journey he says inspired her name. As he told the story Wednesday, Hope made a heart with her hands and held it over her chest.

“Hope, Gus and Gwen,” Walz said to his family, “you are my entire world, and I love you.”

Politics and Government News

Election 2024

Gov. Tim Walz

The Associated Press

Author

The teen's exuberance captured hearts and went viral, becoming perhaps the defining image of his father's address and further humanizing a running mate picked by Vice President Kamala Harris in no small part for his everyman appeal.


Kamil Krzaczynski | AFP via Getty Images

2024 Democratic National Convention: Day 3

'That’s my dad!': Gus Walz tearfully cheers on his father as he accepts Democratic VP nomination

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