Explanation of VP debate rules for the Walz-Vance 2024 showdown.
Welcome to the highly anticipated Vice Presidential debate between Senator JD Vance and Governor Tim Walz! Set to take place on Tuesday at the CBS Broadcast Center in New York, this debate is the only chance for these two candidates to go head-to-head before the election.
The debate, hosted by CBS News, is scheduled to begin at 9 p.m. ET and will be moderated by Norah O’Donnell and Margaret Brennan, both seasoned journalists in their own right.
So, what can we expect from this debate? Let’s dive into the rules laid out by CBS News:
First off, the candidates’ positioning. Walz will be on stage left, which is the right side from the viewers’ perspective. Vance will be on the opposite side. They will remain behind their podiums throughout the debate, with Walz being introduced first as the candidate of the incumbent party.
As for format, there will be no opening statements. The debate is set to last 90 minutes, with two short breaks in between. Unlike other debates, there will be no live audience present.
Each candidate will have two minutes to answer the questions posed to them, with a one-minute rebuttal period after. The moderators will control the pace, ensuring each candidate has their fair share of speaking time.
Lights and countdown clocks will help the candidates keep track of their speaking time. The moderators will be the sole questioners, seated throughout the debate.
When it comes to closing statements, each candidate will have two minutes to make their case to the viewers. A coin toss determined the order of the closing statements, with Vance choosing to go last.
The microphones of the candidates may be muted at CBS News’ discretion, but otherwise, they will remain on. Both candidates will receive no questions or topics in advance, keeping the debate spontaneous and engaging.
No props or pre-written notes will be allowed on stage. Instead, candidates will have a pen, pad of paper, and a water bottle at their disposal. Campaign staffers are not permitted to interact with the candidates during breaks.
The Vice Presidential debate between JD Vance and Tim Walz is the only one planned, so don’t miss it on Tuesday at 9 p.m. ET on CBS and CBS News 24/7. For live coverage, post-debate analysis, and fact checks, download the CBS News app for free.
Get ready for a night of insightful discussion and critical viewpoints as the Vice Presidential candidates spar off in this pivotal debate!
