Hope Walz, the 23-year-old daughter of vice-presidential candidate Tim Walz, garnered attention during the Democratic National Convention as her father accepted the nomination for vice president. While her brother, Gus, captured the spotlight with his emotional response to the speech, Hope also made a statement, sitting beside him with tears in her eyes and forming a heart with her hands, reminiscent of Taylor Swift’s iconic gestures.
What caught many observers’ attention was the distinct color of her nail polish—brat green, a shade that reflects the cultural movement inspired by Charli XCX’s influential album, “brat.” This trend has resonated particularly with younger voters and has even begun to shape discussions around the upcoming 2024 presidential election.
When Vice President Kamala Harris declared her candidacy for the presidency after President Joe Biden’s exit, Charli XCX referred to Harris as “brat” on social media, sparking a wave of memes and enthusiasm for her campaign. As the DNC unfolds, the excitement among younger demographics is evident, suggesting that the campaign’s engagement with online culture is making a tangible difference.
Hope Walz’s choice of nail polish does not appear to be a mere coincidence. Since her debut on the national stage, she has shown herself to be a relatable figure for Gen Z, reflected not only in her styling but also in her connection to contemporary cultural movements.