The highly anticipated vice presidential debate between Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Ohio Senator JD Vance is scheduled for tonight, Tuesday, October 1st, promising a crucial face-off just weeks after the presidential candidates clashed. This debate offers a significant platform for both Walz and Vance to articulate their running mates’ visions for the country, demonstrate their political acumen, and connect with American voters nationwide.
When and Where is the VP Debate?
Set your reminders: the vice presidential debate will commence at 9 p.m. Eastern Time (ET) tonight. The 90-minute debate is hosted by CBS News and will take place in New York City.
How to Watch the VP Debate?
Getting ready to watch? The Walz-Vance debate will be broadcast on CBS and simultaneously aired on the ABC network. For those preferring to stream, ABC News Live, ABC News’ streaming channel, will also carry the debate.
Coverage will be extensive across ABC platforms. ABC network’s pre-debate programming starts at 8 p.m. ET, leading directly into the 9 p.m. ET debate. Post-debate analysis and coverage will continue on ABC until 11 p.m. ET. ABC News Live will provide even broader coverage, beginning at 7 p.m. ET and extending until 12 a.m. ET, ensuring viewers don’t miss any angle of this pivotal political event.
Who are the VP Debate Moderators?
Guiding the conversation will be two prominent figures from CBS News: Norah O’Donnell, anchor and managing editor of “CBS Evening News,” and Margaret Brennan, moderator of “Face the Nation” and CBS News’ chief foreign affairs correspondent. Their experience in political interviewing and news anchoring suggests a well-managed and insightful debate.
What are the VP Debate Rules?
Unlike some debates, the Walz-Vance format will be held in a studio without a live audience. A notable rule difference from the Harris-Trump debate is that the candidates’ microphones will not be automatically muted when it’s not their turn. However, moderators will retain the authority to mute microphones if necessary, ensuring order and focus during the exchanges.
How are Walz and Vance Preparing for the Debate?
Both candidates have been actively preparing for this crucial debate. JD Vance has reportedly enlisted the help of Minnesota Rep. Tom Emmer, who is playing the role of Tim Walz in mock debate sessions. Vance has also been working closely with his team and Jason Miller, a senior advisor from Trump’s campaign, to refine his strategies. Reports indicate Vance has spent considerable time reviewing debate plans, strategies, and anticipating potential questions over the past month.
On the other side, Tim Walz has engaged in mock debates with Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg standing in as JD Vance. Walz has also conducted policy-focused sessions with his long-term aides, Biden White House alumni, and members of the Harris-Walz campaign team. Additionally, sources suggest Walz has been honing his debate skills while on the campaign trail.
Make sure to tune in tonight at 9 p.m. ET to watch the Walz-Vance vice presidential debate, a pivotal moment in the election cycle.