Ever since Kamala Harris announced “the coach” as her running mate back in August, the world has fallen in love with Tim Walz, a surrogate dad we can truly get behind.

Since that time, we’ve seen Walz delightedly step into his role as the people’s fun, nerdy dad. He’s helping us do home maintenance projects, protect our gutters, and generally feel more positive about the state of the nation should he and Harris win the election.

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But a new clip making the rounds on social media is managing to show America’s dad who stepped up in an even sweeter light.

On a recent outing, Walz greeted a delightful orange tabby during a campaign stop, and the chemistry is off the charts.

@timwalz

Everybody, meet Pumpkin!

♬ original sound – Tim Walz

The cat’s name is Pumpkin, and boy does he live up to his glorious name. The way Walz tenderly strokes Pumpkin and seems thrilled to be in his presence…now that, ladies and gentlemen, is how you win a constituency.

It’s a stark contrast to JD Vance’s own catphobic stance, and the people are taking notice.

“This is JD Vance’s nightmare,” one commenter cheekily posted on TikTok. “Tim is the cat lady this country deserves,” another poster said.

It’s true. Cats are notoriously good judges of character, and the fact that Pumpkin seems right at home with Walz speaks volumes. Honestly, this should be the gold standard going forward. Pumpkin should become to presidential hopefuls what Punxsutawney Phil is to Groundhog Day. If a candidate can’t pass the Pumpkin test, they’re out.

If you can’t hang with Garfield, get outta the race!

If there’s any aspect of this election that’s giving us hope, it’s the wholesome energy that the Harris/Walz ticket keeps radiating as we get nearer to election day. May we all show up to the polls to cast those votes with the fluffy radiance of Pumpkin himself.

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