He pointed out the pitfalls of not adequately defending the presidential candidate, citing his efforts to shift attention from Clinton to Trump by recalling Trump's controversial remarks. Kaine believes that successfully redirecting the focus is crucial for Walz in the upcoming debate.

Strategic Debate Advice Rooted in Past Experiences

Kaine contrasts his strategy with that of Sen. Joe Lieberman in the 2000 debate, where Lieberman's emphasis on civility was seen as a detriment to Al Gore’s campaign.

"Look, I was a friend of Joe’s, but his strategy was to make people like him, not to protect Gore," Kaine remarked, highlighting the need for a more aggressive defense strategy.

This guidance comes as Walz prepares to face Vance in a debate that could impact the tightly contested race between Harris and Trump. The debate’s stakes are heightened by President Joe Biden’s decision not to seek re-election, placing extra pressure on Harris and her team.

Kaine anticipates that Vance will likely target Walz’s military service record, aiming to undermine his credibility. In response, Walz has already begun to paint Vance as a "coastal elite," leveraging Vance's venture capital background to frame him as disconnected from mainstream American concerns.

Preparations Intensify on Both Sides

Meanwhile, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg is aiding Walz by role-playing as Vance in mock debates, aiming to simulate the potential attacks and tactics Vance might employ.

This preparation is mirrored by the Republican camp, where House Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R-MN) is assisting Vance by adopting Walz’s persona during their sessions.

Both sides are evidently gearing up for a debate that could be pivotal, despite Kaine’s belief that vice presidential debates generally do not alter the trajectory of presidential races significantly. "The debate doesn’t really move anything unless you don’t protect your top of the ticket," he advised, emphasizing the defensive role Walz must play.

Aside from his role as an advisor, Kaine is also preparing for his own Senate re-election campaign in Virginia. Despite a favorable outlook for Democrats, Kaine is not taking any chances.

"I’m doing one practice debate, and then I will just be myself," he stated, focused on authenticity and over-rehearsed responses.

Countdown to Vice-Presidential Debate Underway

As the debate nears, the advice from seasoned politicians like Kaine could be instrumental in shaping its outcome. His emphasis on defense over likeability and his critique of past debate strategies highlight the evolved understanding of what it takes to succeed in such high-stakes environments.

The exchange between Walz and Vance promises to be a significant event, potentially influencing undecided voters as they weigh their options in the upcoming election.

The strategies employed by both candidates will be closely scrutinized for effectiveness in what remains a critical juncture for both campaigns.

In sum, as the political landscape braces for yet another pivotal debate, the insights and preparations from experienced figures like Kaine underscore the complex dynamics at play in defending not just policy positions but the very candidates themselves at the top of the ticket.