Republican vice presidential candidate Sen. JD Vance, R-Ohio, has been diligently preparing for the upcoming Oct. 1 CBS Vice Presidential Debate against Democrat Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz. Sources familiar with Vance's preparations revealed that he has been reviewing plans, strategies, and potential tough questions in anticipation of the debate.
To simulate the debate environment, House Majority Whip Rep. Tom Emmer, R-Minn., was chosen to portray Walz during mock debates to help Vance acclimate to the Minnesota governor's 'folksy' Midwestern style. Vance has primarily conducted his preparations at his home in Cincinnati and through online sessions with his team.
Vance's inner circle, including his wife Usha, and Trump campaign strategist Jason Miller have been actively involved in the preparation sessions. They have been immersing themselves in studying Walz's debate style by analyzing videos of his past debates from previous campaign runs.
Furthermore, Vance's frequent media appearances have provided him with valuable experience in engaging in debates, particularly with contentious network hosts and responding to attacks, which will be beneficial during the upcoming debate in New York City.
On the other hand, Walz's preparations for the debate include mock debates with U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg portraying Vance to help Walz refine his strategies. Notably, former President Trump has already participated in debates against President Biden and Vice President Harris, with the most recent debate taking place on Sept. 10 in Philadelphia.
Trump announced on TRUTH Social that there would be no third debate, citing the timing of the election. However, Harris expressed willingness to engage in a debate on Oct. 23 hosted by CNN. Trump emphasized during a campaign rally in Wilmington, North Carolina, that he has participated in two debates and stated that it is too late for another debate as the voting process is already underway.
