CBS hosted the anticipated vice-presidential debate on Tuesday, Oct. 1. As there is not another scheduled debate between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump, the debate between Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Ohio Senator JD Vance was the last chance for both campaigns to make a statement before election day, as the nation’s eyes were tuned in.
As the election race is said to be “neck and neck,” the debate between Walz and Vance had more at stake than what meets the eye, This is especially true for voters in the battleground state of Georgia. Georgia has historically voted primarily Republican, however in 2020, President Joe Biden won the state.
Vance and Walz are relatively new to the political spotlight. Both candidates came into the debate favored over their running mates according to CBS analysis. Leading up to the debate Vance and Walz were said to be preparing heavily.
One Georgia voter described the vice-presidential debate between Walz and Vance as more “professional” compared to the preceding debate a month ago. Despite some of their different opinions, both vice-presidential candidates gave one another respect as they spoke to the nation. CBS had different rules compared to the presidential debate hosted by ABC. Microphones for both candidates would not necessarily be cut off when they were not speaking and the fact-checking system was done through CBS’s website.
“Walz and Vance seem to be more prepared and focused on actually debating rather than targeting whatever the news and social media likes to paint.” – Jeremy Hernandez, Georgia voter
The two candidates started off the debate discussing the conflict in the Middle East. Both candidates showed support for Israel, but differentiated on how the United States should approach Iran.
Another consequential topic of the night for Georgia voters was the issue of gun control. A raw moment was displayed as Walz recalled his 17-year-old son’s experience witnessing a devastating shooting. Vance responded showing a good deal of empathy.
“I’m sorry about that. Christ have mercy,” Vance said.
“I appreciate that,” Walz replied.
Vance and Walz both had a constructive approach towards gun violence in America. Both agreed that the issue is getting worse and needs to be addressed quickly, particularly in the younger generation in schools. Vance pointed to mental health and drug use as the leading factor for gun violence. Walz, on the other hand, leaned on tighter restrictions and disagreed on Vance’s point on drug use and mental health being in relation. Both agreed that schools should have an increase in security.
CBS analytics suggested that 88% of viewers thought the tone of the debate was positive, and 12% of viewers suggested was negative.
For Georgia, early voting begins Oct. 15 with election day following on Nov. 5. The final day to register to vote for Georgia will be in less than a week on Oct. 7.
