Vance and Walz Prepare to Face Off in High-Stakes Vice Presidential Debate
Republican Ohio Senator JD Vance and Democratic Minnesota Governor Tim Walz are set to engage in their first and only debate for the 2024 vice presidency on Tuesday evening in New York City. This high-stakes debate comes as the presidential election cycle nears its conclusion, with recent polls indicating a closely contested race between former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris.
The debate, organized by CBS News, will last 90 minutes and commence at 9 p.m. ET. Moderators Norah O’Donnell and Margaret Brennan will facilitate the discussion, which will include topics such as the economy, healthcare, and national security. Both candidates have been preparing intensively for the debate, with Walz rehearsing with Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and Vance preparing with Republican Congressman Tom Emmer and his attorney wife, Usha Vance.
Expectations are high for both candidates, with Walz aiming to moderate his performance while emphasizing his education at Yale Law School, and Vance facing scrutiny over his past statements on Haitian immigrants and other issues. The debate could potentially influence the outcome of the election, particularly given Trump’s decision not to participate in any further debates with Harris.
As the debate approaches, both campaigns are attempting to temper expectations regarding their candidates’ performances. Allies of both candidates have expressed confidence in their preparation, with Walz’s allies noting his extensive political experience and Vance’s supporters highlighting his well-formed opinions on public policy.
