The highly anticipated VP debate between Republican Senator JD Vance and Democratic Governor Tim Walz is set to take place tonight in New York City. With both candidates looking to gain momentum ahead of the final stretch of the 2024 election, the debate will serve as a pivotal moment for each side to make their case to voters. This is expected to be the last major VP debate of the cycle and could potentially sway undecided voters.
Key Takeaways:
Vance Targets Walz's Record: In the VP debate, Vance is expected to challenge Walz's governance in Minnesota, especially focusing on the civil unrest in Minneapolis and Walz’s military record.
Walz's Strategy: Walz plans to highlight the dangers of another Trump presidency, leveraging his "folksy charm" and focusing on policy issues rather than personal attacks.
Debate Format: Both candidates will have structured time to respond to each question, with no microphone muting, which could lead to a more intense back-and-forth debate.
What Is at Stake in the VP Debate?
As the election inches closer, both Vance and Walz will have the opportunity to highlight their records, attack their opponents, and present their party's vision for the future. The VP debate will cover a range of issues, from economic policies to social concerns, giving both candidates a chance to appeal to their respective bases while attempting to woo undecided voters.
For Vance, a senator from Ohio and a close ally of Donald Trump, this is a chance to continue portraying his opponent, Walz, as too liberal for mainstream America. Walz, the governor of Minnesota, will be looking to defend his record while emphasizing the dangers of another Trump presidency. Each candidate will aim to present themselves as the best choice to serve alongside their respective presidential nominees, Trump and Kamala Harris.
Vance's Strategy: Highlighting Walz's Record
Throughout the VP debate, Vance is expected to focus on Walz’s track record as governor of Minnesota, particularly during the civil unrest following the death of George Floyd. Vance will likely argue that Walz was too slow to respond and that his leadership has been lacking during key moments of his governorship.
Vance is also expected to question Walz’s military service, an issue that has been a point of contention throughout the campaign. The Ohio senator previously accused Walz of “stolen valor,” a claim that Walz has denied, stating that his military service record “speaks for itself.”
Walz's Approach: Attacking Vance’s Ties to Trump
On the other side, Walz is expected to focus on the potential consequences of a second Trump administration. He’ll likely attack Vance’s unwavering support for Trump, highlighting the risks associated with electing a MAGA Republican to the White House.
Walz may also point to Vance’s controversial comments on social issues, particularly immigration. Vance once claimed that Haitian immigrants were eating cats, a remark Walz could use to paint him as out of touch with mainstream American values. Instead of focusing solely on personal attacks, Walz is expected to pivot to broader policy issues such as healthcare, the economy, and women’s rights.
Key Moments to Watch
With both candidates coming from different political backgrounds—Vance with his Ivy League credentials and business experience, and Walz with his small-town teaching roots—the contrast in styles will be apparent from the start. Viewers should expect Vance to take a more aggressive approach, while Walz may rely on his folksy charm to connect with voters.
How Walz handles Vance’s criticisms of his record in Minnesota, particularly during the pandemic and civil unrest, will be a critical moment in the debate. Conversely, Vance’s ability to navigate attacks on his relationship with Trump and his own controversial statements will also be closely watched.
VP Debate Format and Viewing Details
The VP debate will be moderated by CBS anchors Norah O’Donnell and Margaret Brennan and will last 90 minutes. Each candidate will have two minutes to answer questions, followed by a two-minute response from their opponent, and one minute for a final rebuttal. The debate will be aired live on CBS and other major streaming platforms.
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