The stage is set for a highly anticipated debate between Sen. J.D. Vance (R-OH) and Gov. Tim Walz (D-MN), with the Trump campaign employing a different strategy than expected. Rather than tempering expectations for Vance’s performance, former President Donald Trump is taking a more aggressive approach, labeling Walz a “total moron” and suggesting the debate will be “rigged.”
In an interview with Fox’s Kellyanne Conway, a former Trump adviser, the former President expressed his disdain for Walz, implying that the governor’s abilities are lacking. “There’s something wrong with that guy,” Trump said. “He’s sick.”
Vance, an Ivy League-educated politician, is seen by some as having an advantage in the debate due to his experience facing opposition from the media. A top aide to Sen. Kamala Harris (D-CA) has described Vance as a “skilled debater.” Democrats, on the other hand, are worried that Walz may struggle to defend his record and come across as overly defensive.
The debate, set to take place on CBS News, will feature a similar format to the presidential debate, with some key differences. There will be no live audience, no prewritten notes, and fact-checks will not be included. Microphones will remain on throughout the debate.
While the Trump campaign is downplaying expectations for Vance, senior adviser Jason Miller has acknowledged that Walz is a formidable opponent. “Tim Walz is very good in debates. Really good,” Miller said. “He’s been a politician for nearly 20 years. He’ll be very well prepared for tomorrow night.”
Vance has been preparing for the debate with Rep. Tom Emmer (R-MN), who is familiar with Walz. Meanwhile, Walz has been working with Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, who shares a similar educational background with Vance.
Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL) is optimistic about Vance’s chances, predicting that he will perform well and potentially overshadow his recent controversy surrounding comments about “childless cat ladies.” Vance will also likely face questions about his unsubstantiated claims regarding Haitian migrants in Springfield, Ohio.
