Former Obama Adviser: Vance ‘Very Good’ at Debating, Walz ‘Trying to Lower Expectations’
Former Obama adviser David Axelrod suggested that Sen. JD Vance, R-Ohio, is better prepared for Tuesday night’s vice-presidential debate because he has been frequently engaging with the media. In contrast, Democratic Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz has not been as active in media appearances, leading to a strategy by the Harris campaign to lower expectations for Walz’s performance.
Axelrod noted that Vance has been “ubiquitous on these Sunday shows and in interviews,” which has helped him prepare extensively for the debate. He also highlighted that the campaign has leaked comments to the media, suggesting that Walz is not a good debater, in an effort to manage expectations.
The debate will be moderated by CBS News’ Norah O’Donnell and Margaret Brennan, and it is expected to be a significant moment in the 2024 election, with both candidates facing high scrutiny. Despite the challenges, Axelrod believes that Vance is “very good at this” and will likely perform well, while Walz’s affability and warmth may be tested against Vance’s more articulate and prepared approach.
