The recent debate between Vice Presidential candidates Republican J.D. Vance and Democrat Tim Walz centered around significant national issues such as school shootings, the housing crisis, abortion, and foreign policy.
Taking place amid rising tensions in West Asia—following Iran’s missile attacks on Israel in retaliation for its strikes in Gaza and Lebanon—the debate underscored the urgency of these matters.
Preemptive Strikes and Foreign Policy
The candidates were asked whether they would support a preemptive U.S. strike on Iran. Walz, who is running alongside Presidential candidate Kamala Harris, stated, “We will protect our forces and our allies, and there will be consequences.” He also criticized Donald Trump, labeling him “dangerous” and emphasizing that “steady leadership is crucial.”
Walz noted, “The world witnessed an almost 80-year-old Donald Trump discussing crowd sizes when we need decisive action.
Those closest to him understand just how perilous his leadership can be in times of global danger.” He attributed Iran’s advancing nuclear ambitions to Trump’s inconsistent leadership.
Vance countered, asserting, “Donald Trump brought stability to the world through effective deterrence. People feared stepping out of line. The Kamala Harris administration has allowed Iran to access over $100 billion in unfrozen assets.” He maintained that Israel should determine its safety measures, adding, “We should support our allies whenever they confront adversaries.”
Addressing Election Integrity
The candidates also touched upon the 2020 election results. Vance claimed Trump “peacefully handed over power on January 20,” prompting Walz to ask, “Did he lose the 2020 election?”
Vance responded by accusing Democrats of being the true threats to democracy and claimed Kamala Harris censored American voices, referencing outdated Facebook policies without directly addressing the question.
Walz dismissed Vance’s comments as a “damning non-answer,” insisting that the events of January 6, when an attempt was made to overturn the election, cannot be overlooked. “This divisiveness has to end. It’s tearing our country apart,” he stated.
The Abortion Debate
Abortion emerged as a critical topic during the debate, with both candidates sharing personal stories about the impact of restrictive laws.
Walz highlighted the tragic consequences faced by women who experienced severe health issues or fatalities due to state-imposed abortion bans following the overturning of Roe v. Wade in 2022. “How can we, as a nation, allow someone’s right to control their own body to be dictated by geography?” he asked.
In contrast, Vance echoed Trump’s position that abortion decisions should be made at the state level. He emphasized the need for the Republican Party to regain the public’s trust and stated that he and Trump support “pro-family policies.”
Addressing School Shootings, Housing, and Immigration
Vance linked the U.S. housing crisis to undocumented immigrants, arguing that their presence competes with American citizens for homes. He advocated for mass deportations as a solution to lowering rents and housing costs.
“We should be removing illegal immigrants who are competing for homes and constructing more housing for deserving American citizens,” he said.
When discussing school shootings and gun control, Vance proposed enhancing security measures in schools. “We need to reinforce doors and windows,” he suggested while noting that much gun violence stems from illegally acquired firearms. He also connected the rise of illegal guns in the U.S. to the “open border” with Mexico.
Walz shared a personal story about his teenage son witnessing a shooting at a community center. However, he inadvertently remarked that he had “become friends with school shooters,” which detracted from the seriousness of his message.