Midwest showdown: Tim Walz, JD Vance to face-off in US vice-presidential debate

Democrat Tim Walz and Republican JD Vance will face off on Wednesday (IST) in the highly anticipated vice-presidential debate, the only one scheduled before the US election on November 5. Both men, representing vastly different political ideologies, will step onto the stage at the CBS Broadcast Center in New York City to defend their positions and advocate for their respective running mates, Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump.

Walz, 60, the liberal governor of Minnesota and a former high school teacher, has spent much of his career focused on education, public service, and progressive policies. He will go head-to-head with JD Vance, 40, a bestselling author and political newcomer from Ohio.

JD Vance, a staunch conservative senator, has gained national attention for his outspoken views and fiery rhetoric. Both men hail from the Midwest and will likely emphasise their regional roots, but their political philosophies and policy positions couldn’t be more different.

The 90-minute debate, which starts at 9 pm Eastern Time (6.30 am IST), is expected to be intense, as both candidates have made controversial statements in the past and will need to clarify their stances on key national issues.

Walz, known for his pragmatic approach to governance, is likely to focus on the Biden-Harris administration’s achievements, particularly in healthcare, education, and climate change. On the other hand, Vance, a vocal critic of Democratic policies, will aim to push Walz to defend his record on immigration, the economy, and his handling of the 2020 Minneapolis riots following the death of George Floyd.

The debate will also give both candidates a chance to address personal controversies. Walz is expected to challenge Vance on his past remarks, including disparaging comments about Democrats, calling them “childless cat ladies," and a false claim about Haitian immigrants in Ohio, which has already been debunked by local officials.

Meanwhile, Vance is likely to press Walz on his military service, questioning whether he misrepresented his rank and role in the Guard. Walz served for 24 years, but some Republicans have accused him of exaggerating his achievements in that capacity.

Political analysts do not expect the debate to drastically change the trajectory of the election, but it offers a crucial moment for both campaigns to make their case to millions of voters watching at home. With no further debates planned, this will be the final opportunity for Walz and Vance to deliver a prime-time performance before the election, and both sides expect it to be a heated exchange.

The debate, moderated by CBS anchors, will follow strict rules, with each candidate given two minutes to respond to questions and one minute for rebuttals.

This debate marks a critical juncture in the 2024 election campaign, offering a final chance for Walz and Vance to make their closing arguments to a national audience. While vice presidential debates historically don’t sway the outcome of elections, this one could set the tone for the final weeks of the campaign.