The CBS News moderators faced a barrage of criticism after their management of a vice presidential debate this week stirred controversy.

The moderators were chastised by commentators and viewers for their treatment of a tense exchange involving Republican nominee J.D. Vance's comments on Haitian migrants.

Contentious Exchange Leads to Microphone Cutoff

The debate, held on Tuesday night, featured Republican vice presidential nominee, Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance, and Democratic nominee Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz. The moderators, Margaret Brennan and Norah O'Donnell, were at the center of the controversy due to their handling of an argument over Haitian migrants.

The incident occurred when Brennan fact-checked Vance's remarks concerning Haitian migrants and their impact on resources in Springfield, Ohio. Vance's statements alluded to false claims about the migrants, sparking a heated debate.

During the back-and-forth, Brennan and O'Donnell decided to cut the candidates' microphones, a decision that led to significant backlash.

Network’s Plan for Fact-Checking in Question

Prior to the event, CBS had made it known that their moderators would refrain from live fact-checking during the debate. This approach was in response to prior criticisms directed at ABC News for similar methods in past debates.

The network's plan involved providing viewers with online fact-checks via a QR Code, an alternative aimed at maintaining neutrality. However, the situation escalated when Vance suggested that migrants in Springfield could potentially overwhelm local resources.

Brennan responded to Vance's allegations by clarifying that many Haitian migrants in the area have legal or temporary protected status.

Criticism of CBS Moderators Sparks Broad Reactions

The moderators' actions were not well-received by everyone. Some commentators perceived their decision to mute the microphones as overtly biased against Vance.

Prominent media figures, including those on Fox News, indicated that the moderators displayed partiality. Bret Baier highlighted the imbalance in fact-checking, which others had observed during the debate.

Fox News commentator Brit Hume noted the moderators' approach felt one-sided, with Vance facing more pressure than his opponent.

Public Responses to the Debate Handling

Social media reactions were swift and sharp. Megyn Kelly took to X, suggesting CBS was overly aggressive in its handling. She pointed out that JD Vance had attempted to confront the moderators regarding their perceived missteps.

Another X user echoed this viewpoint, suggesting a partisan bias in mainstream media. This sentiment was shared by several viewers who felt that Vance was not given a fair chance to debate.

The moderators attempted to maintain control during the broadcast. Brennan told the candidates that the audience was unable to hear them due to the microphones being switched off.

Vance and Walz Spar Over Migrant Policies

During the debate, Vance argued that the Biden Administration has made it easy for Haitian migrants to obtain visas and thereby legal status. He analogized this process to a “wave of a wand” by the current administration.

Gov. Walz, representing the Democratic side, countered Vance by referencing immigration laws that have been effective since 1990. This discussion highlighted the differing views on immigration policy between the candidates.

Despite attempts by CBS to clarify the facts during the debate, the reactions proved divisive. Brennan thanked Vance for sharing information on the legal process, aiming to bridge the gap in understanding.

Debate Moderation Continues to Be Scrutinized

The debate has ignited widespread discussion about the role of moderators in political debates. Observers are questioning the extent to which moderators should participate in live fact-checking.

CBS's approach to the debate has reignited debates on whether media outlets display biases in moderating political events. The moderators' methods during the debate will likely remain a point of discussion as the campaign progresses.

Amidst this scrutiny, CBS faces calls to reassess its approach to handling future debates. Whether they will adapt or maintain their current strategy remains to be seen.