As the vice presidential debate approaches on Tuesday, all eyes are on Senator J.D. Vance of Ohio and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz. The two candidates, representing starkly different backgrounds and political philosophies, will face off in a nationally televised event hosted by CBS News, aiming to showcase why their respective tickets are best suited for the White House.
For Senator Vance, the debate marks a significant moment in his relatively brief political career. Elected to the Senate in 2022, Vance first gained prominence with his 2016 memoir, "Hillbilly Elegy," which detailed his upbringing in the Rust Belt. Initially an outspoken critic of former President Donald Trump, labeling himself a "Never Trumper," Vance has since transformed into a reliable defender of Trump's record and vision.
Governor Walz brings nearly two decades of political experience to the stage. A former teacher, assistant football coach, and Army National Guard member, Walz has often emphasized his Midwestern roots and down-to-earth style. Those who have debated him describe him as relatable and affable, though his casual approach can sometimes lead to missteps.
"He's a plainspoken person," said Minnesota Senate Majority Leader Erin Murphy, who competed against Walz for the Democratic nomination for governor in 2018. "He doesn't put on airs, and he's going to be direct with the people about what he believes we need to do."
As the debate looms, both candidates are expected to lean heavily on their personal narratives to draw contrasts. Vance's policy positions have evolved over time, particularly on issues like abortion, LGBTQ rights, and foreign policy, aligning more closely with Trump's agenda.
On abortion, Vance has moderated his stance. While he campaigned on eliminating abortion during his Senate bid, he now mirrors Trump's position, suggesting the issue should be left to the states. "I am pro-life. I want to save as many babies as possible," Vance said on "Face the Nation" in May. "But I think Trump's approach here is trying to settle a very tough issue and actually empower the American people to decide it for themselves."
Governor Walz is anticipated to focus on his record and experience. However, he will also need to defend Vice President Kamala Harris's tenure, as the Harris-Walz ticket is locked in a tight race against Trump and Vance. "You'll hear me talk like I have about things that impact Americans, making sure they have the opportunity to thrive, making sure that we're being factual in how we talk about that," Walz told MSNBC.
Walz's debate style is both a strength and a potential vulnerability. Former Republican Minnesota Senate Majority Leader Paul Gazelka noted, "Sometimes he speaks off the top of his mind, which maybe didn't get him in trouble as much in Minnesota, but if that's the case now, it will get him into trouble."
Critics point to challenges Walz faced during his tenure as governor, including his handling of the unrest in Minneapolis following George Floyd's death and the state's response to the COVID-19 pandemic. In a 2022 gubernatorial debate, Republican opponent Scott Jensen accused Walz of heavy-handedness. "Let farmers farm. Let miners mine. Let teachers teach. And let government get the hell out of the way," Jensen said.
Vance, meanwhile, faces scrutiny over his policy reversals and controversial statements. His opposition to additional aid for Ukraine places him among a growing isolationist wing within the GOP. He has suggested that Ukraine should cede territory to Russia and proposed the creation of a demilitarized zone between the two countries.
On domestic issues, Vance has been criticized for his stance on LGBTQ rights and immigration. In 2023, he sponsored legislation to ban access to gender-affirming care for minors and opposed the Respect for Marriage Act, citing religious liberty concerns.
"J.D. Vance's transformation from a 'Never Trumper' to a key ally highlights a broader realignment within the Republican Party," said political analyst Laura Thompson. "His policies now closely mirror those of Trump, which could energize the base but also alienate moderate voters."
As the debate stage is set, both candidates understand the high stakes involved. For Vance, it's an opportunity to solidify his national profile and appeal to voters beyond Ohio. For Walz, it's a chance to showcase his leadership and contrast his extensive experience with Vance's relatively brief tenure in politics.
"He's a Yale Law guy. I'm a public school teacher, so we know where he's at on that," Walz remarked, drawing a line between their differing paths. "I think it's a good opportunity to contrast where we're at."
