The first and only vice-presidential debate occurred on Oct. 1 between Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and Ohio Sen. JD Vance. The candidates met in New York on the CBS News Stage and engaged in a civil discussion with an emphasis on policy.
The candidates shared a handshake and debate began on the topic of the Middle East. Gov. Walz thanked the moderators and delivered a response that remained consistent with the Harris-Walz campaign, Israel has a right to defend itself.
During Sen. Vance’s turn, he thanked his opponent and the moderators. “First of all, thanks, Governor. Thanks to CBS for hosting the debate,” Vance said. “And thanks most importantly to the American people who are watching this evening.”
He also gave a largely pro-Israel response, but not before using much of his time to give Americans a brief biography, speaking about his middle class upbringing and education.
The candidates focused on their opponent’s running mates, with Vance criticizing VP Harris’ border security policy and Walz focusing on former President Trump’s abortion rights policy.
The moderators maintained an emphasis on policy. The candidates focused on answering the questions and occasionally agreeing with one another.
During the discussion over the economy, Gov. Walz agreed with Sen. Vance on the effects of globalizing American industry. “Much of what the senator said right there, I’m in agreement with him. I watched it happen, too.” Gov. Walz said.
Sen. Vance, an experienced public speaker, used his time to familiarize himself and appeal to Americans directly. He spoke about his mother’s struggle with addiction, meager upbringing and earning America’s trust.
Gov. Walz stumbled over his words early on in the debate but utilized his rural Midwestern upbringing and political experience as talking points. In the discussion on abortion rights he talked about his family’s experience with fertility treatments.
One standout moment from the debate was a comment from Sen. Vance after Gov. Walz shared his son’s experience with gun violence, having witnessed a shooting at a community center.
“Tim, first of all, I didn’t know that your 17-year-old witnessed the shooting. And I’m sorry about that. Christ have mercy.” Vance said.
He went on to explain his views on the effect of mental health related to gun violence and spoke about empowering law enforcement to combat the issue.
While the debate stayed focused on policy, there were still some contested moments. During the discussion over the Capitol riot, Sen. Vance failed to state whether former President Trump lost the 2020 election, which Gov. Walz labeled as “a damning non answer.”
Gov. Walz began his closing remarks by thanking Vance, CBS and America for their time. He spoke about the collective optimism his running mate VP Harris also shared in her closing remarks in the presidential debate.
He also criticized Donald Trump and claimed the best way forward was with Harris. “Kamala Harris is bringing us a new way forward. She’s bringing us a politics of joy. She’s bringing real solutions for the middle class.” Gov. Walz said.
Sen. Vance used his time in the closing remarks to discuss his belief that Americans deserve affordable housing, energy and consumer goods while blaming Harris for their current prices.
He criticized Harris for underutilizing her time in office as Vice President. “She’s been the Vice President for three and a half years. Day one was 1400 days ago. And her policies have made these problems worse.” Vance said.
Both candidates thanked the viewers for their time and encouraged them to get out and vote. The election will be Tuesday, November 5. Voting registration information can be found at Illinois Board of Elections website, elections.il.gov.