Rep. Tom Emmer, R-Minn., is set to play Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz in Sen. JD Vance’s final vice presidential debate rehearsals, which have involved in-person and virtual sessions over Zoom and “murder boards” to prepare for tough questions. The preparations have included analyzing Walz’s past debate performances and policy positions to familiarize Vance with his style. The goal is to dismantle Walz’s moderate image during the upcoming face-off in New York. Emmer, who also has Midwest roots, was chosen as a stand-in for Walz to provide a deeper perspective on the opponent.
Vance, a former Ohio Republican, has been working with key members of former President Donald Trump’s campaign, including Jason Miller, Usha Vance, and political advisers, to fine-tune his debate strategy for over a month. Vance’s experience in responding to attacks, such as accusations of supporting conspiracy theories like the “great replacement theory,” has prepared him for challenging situations. In contrast, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg is playing Vance in Walz’s rehearsals, led by aides Rob Friedlander and Zayn Siddique, along with other members of Walz’s team.
The upcoming debate is seen as an opportunity for Walz to promote Vice President Kamala Harris’ platform and vision for the future. The Harris-Walz spokesperson Emily Soong emphasizes that the debate will highlight Harris’ vision for a “New Way Forward” and a departure from the Trump administration. The engagement in the debates is significant for Vance and Walz, as it allows them to showcase their policies, style, and readiness for national leadership roles.
Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com
