With just over a month to go until Election Day, the stage is set for a pivotal vice presidential debate between Republican nominee JD Vance and Democratic nominee Tim Walz. The debate, slated for October 1, will be broadcast live on CBS News at 9 p.m. ET, providing both candidates with their only opportunity to publicly defend their records and promote their respective presidential candidates, Donald Trump and Kamala Harris.
The stakes are high as both Vance, the junior senator from Ohio, and Walz, the governor of Minnesota, prepare to engage with voters and bolster support. Recent polls indicate a tight race between Harris and Trump, with Vance and Walz stepping onto the debate stage at what could be a game-changing moment.
Many analysts believe this debate is of more significance than previous years. With the overall electoral picture being so close, any significant gaffe or winning remark could sway voters, especially those undecided on key issues. Democratic strategist Steven Maviglio noted, “All the needle needs to be moved is 0.1 percent in either direction, and it could mean the difference for four or five states.”
Vance is under considerable pressure to recover from the previous debate where Trump faced criticisms for false claims and unsubstantiated rhetoric. Meanwhile, Walz is expected to address accusations concerning his and Harris’s liberal policies which are seen as potentially alienative, especially as Harris tacks her campaign to the center with the election approaching.
Even though vice presidential debates historically serve as secondary events—often overshadowed by the presidential debates—Walz and Vance's heated exchanges have garnered unprecedented attention, making this debate particularly anticipated. The two are expected to criticize and counter one another across various policy domains, including healthcare, the economy, and military service, among others.
Vance, known for coining phrases like “childless cat ladies” to characterize Democratic voters, faces the challenge of addressing serious topics amid his propensity for offensive rhetoric. His controversial outlook, including remarks about immigration, has raised eyebrows, pushing him to clarify his position.
Walz, on the other hand, presents himself as the more relatable candidate, highlighting his background as a high school football coach. Yet, he's likely to be challenged about his record during the civil unrest following George Floyd's death, as this remains sensitive territory for many voters.
Strategically, each candidate prepares through mock debates, with Vance utilizing Representative Tom Emmer to simulate Walz's responses, and Walz employing Secretary Pete Buttigieg for his practice sessions. Emmer expressed his thoughts on taking on the role of Walz, stating, "The hardest part is trying to tell lies with a straight face."
Vance characterized Walz as “out of touch,” aiming to paint his counterpart as overly progressive and explaining his efforts during campaign trails. He also faces the challenge of convincing voters he can relate to their everyday experiences, which polls suggest are not entirely favorable to him. A recent Pew Research Center survey revealed only 34% of Americans hold favorable views of Vance, compared to 39% for Walz.
With preparation ramping up, Vance claimed, “We don’t have to prepare much,” confidently asserting his focus will be on “clear and direct” communication of Trump’s successes contrasted against what he deems Harris's failed policies. This, he stated, will resonate well with voters concerned about rising costs and job security.
Debate expert Aaron Kall emphasized the importance of the vice presidential stance, remarking, “Their most important job is to be effective surrogates and proxies for their presidential campaigns.” Walz's team is expected to press Vance hard on Trump's alleged connection with various controversial policies and his recent claims related to immigration.
Notably, both candidates’ debate preps involve reviewing past debate footage to notice strengths and weaknesses. Walz aims to show how his achievements as governor benefit Minnesota voters directly, appealing to their sense of trust and community. Vance, meanwhile, must navigate how his descriptions of Walz could resonate negatively among moderate and independent voters.
Voters are left to ponder which candidate can effectively capture their needs and concerns. Vance's position is complex: he must balance asserting his principles without alienation, particularly amid heightened scrutiny over his more controversial opinions. If he manages to maintain focus on issues important to these electorates, such as economic instability and public safety, it could carve out much-needed support.
Echoing previous vice presidential debates, there are mixed opinions on whether real momentum is achieved from these events. Paul Begala, a former advisor, cautioned Vance saying, “Even if Vance were to destroy Walz, it won’t make any significant difference if voters prefer the presidential candidates.”
Voters may look for personal connection and approaches to serious issues rather than hard-hitting confrontation. With Walz's more personable history, he may draw voters in with a subtler approach and more empathy. Meanwhile, Vance must utilize this to his advantage to avoid alienation.
Both candidates know they'll face questions from the press before and after the debate, shaping how they respond to media narratives currently fueling voter sentiments. Vance has already been active engaging with various outlets, learning how to hone his talking points effectively.
Overall, this debate will not only be significant for its own sake but will serve to define how voters perceive both candidates leading up to the November election. Candidates will face scrutiny as they seek to define and defend their own track records, all under the pressure of the looming Election Day.
For Vance and Walz, this debate serves as more than just political rhetoric; it's about setting the tone for their parties as they head to the polls. Capturing the quintessential essence of their campaigns, it remains to be seen who will emerge victorious from the debate stage and sway the hearts and minds of the attendees watching at home.
