Last week’s Vice-Presidential debate served not only as a face-off between two potential West Wingmen but also an opportunity for many Americans to meet and greet largely unknown contenders in the race of the century. The only scheduled debate for the pair was hosted by CBS and moderated by on-air personalities Norah O’Donnell and Margaret Brennan, featuring many rules similar to last month’s contest between presidential candidates Donald Trump and Kamala Harris. One difference was meant to be an absence of live fact-checking, but neither host could help herself interrupting Republican contender JD Vance to offer a critique.
After a clumsy opening, Democratic nominee Tim Walz made his introductions to the nation, leaning heavily into midwestern mild manners and aw-shucksability. Proof the political memory is equal to the life of a fruit fly, he bafflingly referenced Donald Trump’s age as proof of ineligibility, despite Joe Biden’s active leadership and recently shuttered campaign. Vance opened strong, demonstrating either a natural affinity for debate or pristine prep, and fulfilled his primary role as storyteller of Trump’s American Dream.
While his boss trades largely in soundbites and “bumper sticker policy,” Vance clarified and expanded much of the platform so as to be absorbable by the average voter. The Hillbilly Elegy author was able to weave information and anecdote seamlessly, something with which his ticket-topper often struggles. Vance’s brand of mitigated MAGA could help to calm more nervous would-be Trumpers, while Walz feels like a continuation of Kamala’s folksy banter.
For 90 minutes, Vance and Walz detailed their camps’ plans for the future of America and touched on immigration, the economy, abortion, climate change, health care, and the Middle East. Timing was not on Walz’s side- as Israel and Iran inch closer to war, it is evident the Minnesota Governor is not at his best when questioned on foreign policy. Vance, meanwhile, displayed mastery of the situation and won clearly on the issue of international relations.
On the heels of Biden’s withdrawal, there is perhaps more focus than ever before being placed on electing a Vice President who is actually ready to succeed in the event of a tragedy or emergency. While post-debate flash polling showed a relative tie between Vance and Walz, there is no question which candidate seemed a more legitimate contender for Commander in Chief. Walz seems like a perfectly nice man and may do a fine job as Governor. Still, any individual publicly identifying themselves as a “knucklehead,” as he did during the debate, is not the choice to face down Russia, China, or Iran. Goofy may play well in rural America, but it is not recognized in moments of critical negotiation or strength.
For his part, Donald Trump is reportedly “absolutely thrilled” with his sidekick’s performance, posting to Truth Social that Vance had “crushed it.”
Who do you feel won the Vice-Presidential debate? Will it have any impact on November’s election?
Hilary Gunn is a Connecticut native with a degree in Criminal Justice from the George Washington University. She works for a nonprofit and has previously collaborated with the CT GOP as an activist, political campaign manager and field director, and social media organizer. She is currently serving in her fourth term of municipal office and has previously acted as a delegate on the Republican Town Committee.