Walz Prepares for High-Stakes Vice Presidential Debate

As Tim Walz gears up for the upcoming vice presidential debate against JD Vance, nerves are running high. He admits to feeling as anxious now as he did during his initial meeting with Kamala Harris, where he candidly shared his concerns about his debating skills. Many close to him suggest his apprehension may be even greater this time around.

The stakes are particularly elevated as this vice presidential debate could be the last major event before Election Day—a rarity in modern political campaigns. With many voters still unfamiliar with Harris, Walz’s role in winning their trust becomes critical, especially since he didn’t know her well prior to her selecting him as a running mate.

Sources close to Walz report that he is particularly worried about letting Harris down and fears the repercussions of a Trump victory. He has expressed deep disdain for Vance, feeling that his opponent has strayed from their shared Midwestern values and molded his views to align with Trump. Walz has even joked about Vance’s Yale education, suggesting that he’s more of an outsider to the Midwestern experience.

While Walz is known for his strong character, colleagues like Minnesota Senator Amy Klobuchar emphasize that he’s not a “lawyer-debater type.” His strength lies in his authenticity and connection with people, rather than in the cut-and-thrust of traditional debate tactics. He is confident in Harris’s vision, yet he worries about effectively conveying his own arguments.

Inside his debate preparation sessions, which often stretch late into the night, Walz and his team engage in various strategies, including watching videos of Vance and holding mock debates. They plan to shift focus away from Vance and toward Trump, hoping to capitalize on moments that may provoke a reaction from the former president. The goal is to position Walz as a relatable candidate who can resonate with undecided voters while challenging Vance’s allegiance to Trump.

In a unique approach, Walz may invoke the dramatic events surrounding January 6, asking Vance about the promises he made to Trump. The team aims for a tone of “commonsense indignation,” balancing humor and earnestness to present Walz as both likable and formidable.

Traditionally, running mates have taken on the role of attack dogs, but Walz has shifted toward being an emotional support figure for his party. His recent campaign appearances have emphasized positive energy, uplifting both Harris and supporters. This strategy appears to be effective; at a recent gala, his words moved attendees to tears, illustrating his ability to connect emotionally.

However, there are concerns about Walz’s limited media engagement since becoming Harris’s running mate. Aides are cautious, believing that more unscripted events might overshadow Harris’s campaign, which has been more tightly controlled. As a result, Walz has focused on highlighting Harris’s qualifications and importance, rarely mentioning his own candidacy.

Walz’s relatable persona stands out against the backdrop of traditional politics. He embodies a warm, family-oriented demeanor, contrasting sharply with the stereotypical image of machismo often portrayed by Republican candidates. His ability to connect with a diverse range of voters—beyond just rural white males—has been a crucial element of his campaign.

Despite the challenges, Walz continues to approach his newfound role with humility and humor. At a high-profile event in Manhattan, he deflected attention when someone remarked on his potential future as vice president, acknowledging that it still felt surreal to him.

Behind the scenes, he has also shown his political acumen by facilitating connections between various party leaders and supporters. His grassroots style includes recognizing the importance of high school band alumni as a key demographic to engage.

As the debate approaches, Walz’s team remains focused on encouraging him to project joy and reassurance rather than attempting to deliver knockout lines. They believe that maintaining his authentic, down-to-earth persona will resonate most effectively with voters.

Former Ohio Congressman Tim Ryan, who previously debated Vance, advised Walz’s team to encourage him to be himself. “Everyone enjoys seeing you and who you are,” Ryan noted, underscoring the importance of authenticity in this high-pressure environment.

As the countdown to the debate continues, Walz’s blend of genuine connection and strategic preparation will be crucial in shaping the perception of both himself and Harris as they seek to win over voters in a highly competitive political landscape.