Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Ohio Senator JD Vance will debate as Vice Presidential nominees on October 1. The debate will occur as early voting starts in some states for the November election.
Possible Second Presidential Debate
A second Presidential debate is also possible in September or October, according to Democratic Nominee Kamala Harris’s camp, contingent on Republican Nominee Donald Trump’s agreement to participate in an already scheduled debate on September 10. Trump has said he will debate Harris on September 10.
CBS News Invitation
CBS News invited Vance and Walz to participate in a debate in New York City in September or October.
Walz’s Response
Walz reposted the CBS tweet, replying, “See you on October 1, JD.”
Harris-Walz Campaign Statement
The Harris-Walz Campaign also wrote that Walz “looks forward to debating JD Vance– if he shows up.”
Vance’s Response
Vance also took to X to accept the invitation to debate on Oct. 1. Vance also invited Walz to another earlier debate on CNN on September 18.
Unconfirmed Response to Earlier Debate Proposal
The Harris-Walz campaign has not confirmed whether Walz would consider the earlier debate proposal from Vance.
Debate Moderators
Both candidates have agreed to the October 1 debate, which will be moderated by Norah O’Donnell and Margaret Brennan.
Uncertainty Until Announcement
It was unclear until Thursday’s announcement if Vance and Walz would engage in a debate before the election.
Walz’s Candidacy Announcement
Walz’s candidacy was only announced in August, and Vance has been focused on attacks against Harris, only recently turning his attention to Walz.
Vance’s Attack Strategy
Vance’s main direction of attack against Walz is his military record, which Vance contends involves a claim of “stolen valor” where Walz takes credit for his military service while allegedly purposely retiring before being deployed to a war zone.
Vance’s Initial Debate Preparation
Vance had been prepared to debate Harris, who until recently had been the Vice Presidential candidate to face off with Vance on the debate stage.
Trump’s Eagerness for Debate
Trump is eager for Vance to debate Walz, having selected an Ivy League Law Graduate as his running mate- a sure bet as a proficient debater.
Timing of the Debate
The October 1 debate will come just weeks after the Trump-Harris debate on September 10 on ABC News.
