Walz and Vance discuss key issues in sole vice presidential debate

At the first and only vice presidential debate on October 1, Governor Tim Walz of Minnesota and Senator JD Vance of Ohio discussed key issues such as abortion, immigration, gun policy, and democracy. The debate occurred after President Joe Biden decided not to seek reelection following a poor debate performance in June. Former President Donald Trump, the Republican nominee, declined a second debate with Vice President Kamala Harris.

On foreign policy, Walz criticized Trump's approach by stating, “Our allies understand that Donald Trump is fickle,” while emphasizing the leadership of Kamala Harris. Vance countered with a focus on diplomacy: “Effective, smart diplomacy and peace through strength is how you bring stability back to a very broken world.”

Regarding immigration and border security, Vance supported empowering law enforcement at the southern border but did not clarify his stance on family separations. He stated that deportations should target those who committed crimes beyond illegal entry. Walz criticized Republicans for rejecting a bipartisan border security bill influenced by Trump’s opposition before the election.

The candidates also clashed over abortion rights. Walz attributed changes in state laws to Trump's Supreme Court appointments overturning Roe v. Wade. He argued for women's freedom to make choices regarding pregnancy. Vance opposed a federal abortion ban but advocated for policies supporting families: “I want us to support fertility treatments...to give women more options.” He questioned whether Catholic hospitals would be forced to perform abortions under certain policies.

On gun policy and school safety, Vance suggested increasing school security: “We’ve got to make our schools safer.” Walz promoted enhancing red flag laws and background checks without infringing on Second Amendment rights.

A discussion about threats to democracy saw Vance defending Trump’s actions surrounding the 2020 election claims and January 6 Capitol riot. He emphasized focusing on future issues rather than past controversies. Walz pressed him for clarity on Trump's claims but received no direct response.

Election Day is set for November 5.

Kate Scanlon reports nationally for OSV News from Washington D.C., sharing updates via X (formerly Twitter) @kgscanlon.