Thursday’s campaign stop by Democratic vice presidential nominee Tim Walz will be the second visit to Erie by a vice presidential candidate in about the last week.

Republican vice presidential nominee J.D. Vance campaigned in Erie last Wednesday. 

Our political analyst, Dr. Joe Morris of Mercyhurst University, said these visits signal Erie County's importance in the election.

Erie County's demographics mirror those of Pennsylvania, which is becoming a must-win state.

The vice presidential candidates act as campaign messengers when Trump and Harris are unavailable, he said, adding that making voters feel heard is an important part of an election.

"Sending a vice presidential candidate to a particular community not only makes voters feel heard but it also energizes people. It makes them excited," Morris said.