Analyzing claims made by Walz and Vance in 2024 VP debate
The CBS News Fact-Checking Team at the Vice Presidential Debate
The CBS News Fact-Checking Team is at the center of the action tonight, making sure the truth prevails in the biggest claims made by Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and Ohio Sen. JD Vance during the 2024 Vice Presidential Debate in New York City.
CBS News Hosts the Debate
The only planned Vice Presidential Debate between Vance and Walz took place on Oct. 1 at 9 p.m. ET. You can catch the exclusive coverage on CBS and CBS News 24/7. Don’t forget to download the free CBS News app for live coverage, post-debate analysis, comprehensive fact checks, and more.
Debate Moderators
The debate was fashioned by “CBS Evening News” anchor and managing editor Norah O’Donnell and “Face the Nation” moderator and chief foreign affairs correspondent Margaret Brennan, ensuring a dynamic discussion throughout the event.
You can find CBS News’ coverage of the Vice Presidential Debate here.
The Fact Check Results
False Claim by Vance Regarding Iran Assets
Vance falsely claimed that Iran received over $100 billion in unfrozen assets thanks to the Kamala Harris administration. In reality, this stems back to the Iran nuclear deal negotiated in 2015 under President Obama, not the Biden administration. The claim is debunked with clear context details.
False Assertion by Vance on ObamaCare and Trump
Vance’s input suggesting that Trump worked in a bipartisan way to ensure affordable care under ObamaCare is misleading. The reality was quite different, with several actions taken during Trump’s term perceived as harming the insurance marketplace created by the Affordable Care Act.
Misleading Statement by Vance about Lost Children
Vance exaggerated about 320,000 missing migrant children. The truth is more nuanced, with many not showing up to immigration court hearings, but not necessarily being “lost.” The Biden administration does not have a family separation policy like Trump’s “zero tolerance” approach.
True Word by Walz on Decrease in Border Crossings
Walz was accurate in stating that border crossings are down compared to Trump’s term. There was a significant drop since the administration’s changes in asylum policies, even though the overall yearly numbers during Biden’s tenure were higher compared to Trump.
Partially True Claim by Vance on Insulin Cost
Vance’s assertion on insulin cost without proper context is analyzed in this fact check. While the cost of production might be low, the actual selling price, including several critical factors, can lead to higher figures. The truth lies in the nuances of this complex issue.
Details on Walz’s Claims
Walz showcased a variety of statements about border issues, climate change, prescription drugs, and even former Trump Chief of Staff John Kelly’s opinions. Some were true, some partially, and some misleading, raising the importance of context and fact-checking.
Conclusion
As fact-checking continues during the Vice Presidential Debate, it’s clear that a critical eye is essential to separate fact from fiction. Stay tuned for more updates and insights to ensure informed decision-making and understanding of the real story behind the statements made.
This article will be updated with additional fact checks as the debate continues.
About the Author
Laura Doan is a fact checker for CBS News Confirmed. She covers misinformation, AI, and social media.

