St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter has worn many hats in the political arena, from state employee to city council and, for the past six years, capital city mayor.
During the Democratic National Convention in Chicago this week, he added one more title to his political resume — that of chant leader. The mayor’s image has been captured by more than one media outlet, in pictures and videos, making a joyful noise for Gov. Tim Walz, who was chosen as running mate this month by Vice President Kamala Harris in her bid for the White House.
“I am happy to report I made it out of the Minnesota delegation alive,” wrote MSNBC political analyst Jacob Soboroff on the social media platform X on Wednesday, rebroadcasting video of Minnesota delegates shouting “Walz! Walz!,” “Coach!” and “Minnesota!” under Carter’s direction as the mayor led chanting and high-fived delegates in front of the camera.
The Walz selection hasn’t just elevated the governor’s profile on the national stage. It’s also placed an unusual media spotlight on Minnesota and Minnesotans, including the governor’s political allies, family and fans. Carter is no exception. The mayor has been sharing clips of the delegation — and himself — in high-energy mode through his personal X account, @melvincarter3.
“All the other delegations have left the floor — but Minnesota is still here chanting,” wrote Kaitlan Collins, a CNN anchor, on X shortly after 11 p.m. Wednesday. In the center of her photo was Carter himself, looking exuberant and, if pictures could talk, a bit loud.
“The United Center turned the lights off on us chanting for our Gov. Tim Walz last night & (the) Minnesota Delegation only cheered louder!” wrote Carter the next morning. “It felt like ‘Miracle On Ice’ in there!”
Carter also shared video of the governor Thursday morning. “A surprise visit from our Gov. Tim Walz sent the Minnesota Delegation energy right back through the roof this morning!” said the mayor on X.
The four-day convention, which featured Walz on Wednesday night, was scheduled to wrap Thursday night with speeches from Harris and others. The presidential election is Nov. 5.
