The highly anticipated vice presidential debate between Democrat Tim Walz and Republican JD Vance is set to take place Tuesday night. As the only debate between the vice presidential candidates for the 2024 election, this face-off could be the last time the two campaigns clash onstage. Hosted by CBS News in New York without a live audience, the debate is expected to be intense as both candidates look to reinforce their ticket’s message. Here are five key things to watch for:
1. The Coach vs. The Ex-Pundit Walz and Vance both come from Middle America and have well-crafted political personas. Walz, the 60-year-old Minnesota governor, brings his background as a high school teacher and assistant football coach to the debate stage, emphasizing his grassroots appeal. Vance, a 40-year-old Ohio senator, is a Marine veteran and author of a best-selling memoir about Appalachian family values. He’s likely to highlight his journey from Trump critic to supporter. Both will attempt to connect with voters in swing states by showcasing their authenticity and Middle America roots.
2. Abortion and Family Issues Expect abortion rights to be a key issue during the debate. Walz, representing the Democratic stance, has framed the debate around personal freedom and reproductive rights. Vance, who has taken a more conservative stance on abortion, has portrayed Walz as extreme on the issue, particularly attacking Walz’s signing of a law in Minnesota that allows late-term abortions. This will likely be a heated point of contention as both candidates try to appeal to women and young voters.
3. Which Version of Walz Will Show Up? Walz rose to national attention with sharp criticisms of Trump and his allies, branding them as “weird” in TV interviews. However, since being selected as Kamala Harris’ running mate, he has been relatively quiet. Whether he takes a more aggressive or restrained approach in the debate will be crucial in determining his effectiveness. Will he channel the energy that brought him to the ticket, or will he play it safe in front of a national audience?
4. Walz’s Military Record Under Scrutiny Vance has previously attacked Walz’s military service, accusing him of overstating his record and trying to avoid combat during his time in the Minnesota National Guard. Walz has admitted to misspeaking but insists he never falsely claimed to have been in combat. Vance is expected to continue pressing this issue, potentially forcing Walz to defend his record onstage.
5. Vance and the Springfield, Ohio Controversy Vance and Trump have faced criticism for making unsubstantiated claims about immigrants in Springfield, Ohio, accusing Haitian migrants of abducting pets. While these claims have been debunked, Vance has doubled down on the rhetoric, framing it as a broader critique of the Biden administration’s immigration policies. Expect Walz to bring up Vance’s controversial statements in an attempt to discredit him, while Vance will likely use it to keep immigration front and center in the debate.