Here’s Who’s Replacing Vance and Walz in VP Debate Preparation

As the clock ticks down to the highly anticipated vice presidential debate for the 2024 race, the candidates are fine-tuning their strategies. Both Republican nominee Senator JD Vance and Democratic nominee Governor Tim Walz are gearing up for this significant event scheduled on October 1, hosted by CBS News at the CBS Broadcast Center in New York City.

In preparation for the debate, Transport Secretary Pete Buttigieg has stepped in as a stand-in for Senator Vance during Governor Walz’s practice sessions. Known for his strong debating capabilities showcased during the 2020 Democratic presidential primaries, Buttigieg has lent his expertise to various debates, even previously preparing for Vice President Kamala Harris against former Vice President Mike Pence.

Buttigieg’s reputation as a formidable presence on the debate stage has earned him the nickname “Slayer Pete,” a title coined by the Los Angeles Times for his sharp and effective rhetoric on cable news platforms.

On the flip side, Representative Tom Emmer is filling the role of Governor Walz in Senator Vance’s prep sessions. Emmer, who serves as House majority whip, brings valuable insights to Vance’s preparation from his own experiences in Minnesota, addressing Walz’s strategies and approaches.

Walz has expressed respect for Vance’s preparation efforts, acknowledging his background as a Yale Law graduate. “You know he’s a Yale Law guy, and I’m a public school teacher, so we know where both of us stand,” Walz remarked during a recent interview. He emphasized that he fully expects Vance to be ready and diligent, given his experience as a U.S. Senator and a legal education at a prestigious institution.

The debate promises to be a pivotal moment in the campaign trail, with key topics likely to attract attention. Moderating the showdown will be CBS Evening News anchor Norah O’Donnell alongside Face the Nation host and CBS News chief foreign affairs correspondent Margaret Brennan, ensuring a thorough exploration of the candidates’ positions.

This singular debate opportunity will provide both candidates with a platform to showcase their policies and engage directly with each other. Vance and Walz will aim to connect with voters across the nation, addressing issues that matter most to the electorate.

The stakes are high as the candidates come together in a forum designed to highlight their differences and present their visions for the future. With the mounting pressure from supporters and pundits alike, the debate is expected to draw significant viewership, allowing citizens to gauge who could be a potential heartbeat away from the presidency.

As both camps diligently prepare, the anticipation continues to build among voters, advisers, and analysts. The outcome of this debate could play a crucial role in shaping the trajectory of the upcoming election, providing an opportunity for the candidates to sway undecided voters and reinforce their respective bases.

The debate is set for October 1 at 9 p.m. ET, and will be broadcast on CBS and CBS News’ 24/7 channel, making it accessible for a wide audience eager to engage with the electoral process.

As the candidates finalize their preparations, it is clear that this first and only vice presidential debate of the 2024 campaign is not just another political event but a chance for both Vance and Walz to define their candidacies against the backdrop of a highly charged political landscape.

Source: CBS News