Sen. J.D. Vance (R-OH) is in the final stages of preparation for the upcoming vice-presidential debate, set to take place on Oct. 1 in New York City.

Vance will face off against Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz (D-MN) in a much-anticipated event that will be broadcast by CBS, and the senator is reportedly using the help of a stand-in who plays the role of his opponent, as the Washington Examiner reports.

The debate marks a critical moment in the closely contested election, with both Vance and Walz trying to sway undecided voters as the clock ticks down.

Vance has been preparing with a combination of strategies, utilizing both in-person sessions and virtual meetings. His preparation team includes his wife, Usha Vance, and political adviser Jason Miller.

For weeks, they have worked to sharpen Vance’s arguments and responses, including simulated “murder board” sessions designed to confront him with difficult questions.

Emmer Plays Key Role in Vance's Preparation

To replicate the experience of debating Walz, Vance’s team has enlisted Rep. Tom Emmer (R-MN) to stand in for the Minnesota governor. Emmer’s background and experience, particularly his Minnesotan roots and time spent coaching youth sports, make him a strong match to mimic Walz’s style. Emmer’s role has been critical in helping Vance anticipate the kinds of arguments and strategies that Walz may deploy during the debate.

Meanwhile, Vance’s team has been reviewing past debate videos of Walz to gain deeper insights into his speaking style and approach. This attention to detail is part of a broader effort to avoid any surprises on debate night. With only one debate scheduled between the two vice presidential candidates, the stakes are high for both sides.

Walz Prepares for Vance in Democrats' Sessions

On the Democratic side, Walz has been preparing with a strong team of his own. His debate team includes aides Rob Friedlander and Zayn Siddique, the latter of whom brings significant experience, having previously prepared Vice President Kamala Harris for debates. Walz is also benefitting from the help of Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, who has been acting as a stand-in for Vance during mock debate sessions.

Walz, whose favorability rating stands at 40% according to recent polling data from FiveThirtyEight, is relatively new to the national political stage compared to Vance. However, his status as a sitting governor and the focus on his rising profile in the Democratic Party have brought increased attention to his candidacy, especially with Harris remaining somewhat out of the spotlight.

Close Polls Add Pressure for Both Candidates

With polling showing a closely contested race, neither Vance nor Walz has a clear lead heading into the debate. Vance, with a favorability rating of 34% and a higher unfavorable rating of 45%, has faced more intense scrutiny, particularly following past comments in which he criticized the Democratic Party as being run by "crazy cat ladies." Democrats have seized on these remarks in their attacks against Vance, adding further pressure to his debate performance.

Walz, on the other hand, has maintained a more neutral public profile, although his favorability and unfavorability ratings are closer together at 40% and 36%, respectively. As both candidates head into the debate, they are aiming to connect with undecided voters and solidify their support base, with each knowing that this will be their only chance to directly engage one another in front of a national audience.

Debate Format and Timing Create High-Stakes Event

The debate, which will begin at 9 p.m. on Oct. 1, is expected to last 90 minutes and will cover a wide range of issues. Given the current state of the election, the event is seen as a crucial opportunity for both Vance and Walz to break through to voters who are still on the fence. Hosted by CBS, the debate will be moderated by a panel of journalists who are expected to ask tough, policy-focused questions.

While the presidential candidates have garnered significant attention, this vice-presidential debate may serve as a key moment in shaping public opinion. As Vice President Kamala Harris remains a relatively infrequently seen figure in the Democratic campaign, some have suggested that Walz's performance could have an outsized impact on the election, adding further significance to the upcoming event.

Final Preparations Underway Ahead Of October 1st

With just days remaining before the debate, both Vance and Walz are making their final adjustments. Vance continues to rely on his core team, with Jason Miller playing a pivotal role in helping him prepare for every possible scenario. On the Democratic side, Walz’s aides, including Friedlander and Siddique, are ensuring that the governor is fully equipped to handle the fast-paced and high-pressure environment of the debate stage.

As the clock ticks down to Oct. 1, all eyes are on the two vice presidential candidates. Both Vance and Walz understand that their performance in New York City could very well influence the outcome of the election. The debate, with its focus on policy, personality, and preparedness, promises to be a defining moment in a race that remains too close to call.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Sen. J.D. Vance and Gov. Tim Walz are preparing for a crucial vice-presidential debate in New York City, where they will meet face-to-face for the only time during this election cycle.

Vance’s preparation includes the help of Rep. Tom Emmer as a stand-in for Walz, while Walz is utilizing Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg as his debate partner.

With polling showing a closely contested race and the debate being their sole opportunity to directly address one another, both candidates are aiming to sway undecided voters. The election is still up for grabs, making this debate a key moment in the campaign.