The VP Debate: Vance Shines, Walz Is Overmatched, Partisan CBS Moderators

Join Jim and Greg as they break down Tuesday’s vice presidential debate between Ohio Sen. JD Vance and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz. They explain why Vance dominated, why Walz failed to rise to the occasion, and how the CBS moderators stood out for all the wrong reasons.

First, they highlight Vance’s stellar performance, delivering strong, organized answers while keeping his criticism focused on Kamala Harris rather than Walz. His persuasive responses on the economy, immigration, and the Middle East were particularly effective, though there were a few moments where his answers could have been stronger.

Next, they critique Walz from his shaky start to his painful dodge on his lie about whether he was in China during the Tiananmen Square massacre in June 1989. He seemed to talk more about his record in Minnesota than defending Kamala's performance as vice president. And they note his inadvertent stumble suggesting he was friends with school shooters. It was a slip of the tongue - but Republicans never get the benefit of the doubt when they flub a line.

Finally, they express frustration with CBS moderators Norah O’Donnell and Margaret Brennan. Both displayed bias, making comments critical of GOP positions and contradicting their promise not to fact-check. Brennan especially fumbled when she tried to cut off Vance as he corrected her on immigration facts.