What are the rules for the Vance-Walz VP debate?
(NewsNation) — Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and Ohio Sen. JD Vance are set to face off in the first and only scheduled vice presidential debate Tuesday.
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CBS News is hosting the debate from New York City, which will span 90 minutes and begin at 9 p.m. ET. Two four-minute breaks will occur.
Walz and Vance will trade barbs just five weeks from Election Day. This will likely be the last debate of this election cycle after former President Donald Trump declined the opportunity to participate in a second debate with Vice President Kamala Harris.
Will there be an audience?
As was the case for the previous two debates this campaign cycle, there will not be an audience.
How long will Vance and Walz have to answer questions?
The vice presidential nominees will each have two minutes to answer any given question, with the opponent having the same time to respond.
One minute will then be provided for both to have a rebuttal. Of course, moderators will have the discretion to add time where they see fit.
As for closing statements, both will receive two minutes. Walz will go first, followed by Vance.
Will microphones be muted?
While the vice presidential candidates speak, mics will not be muted unless CBS News decides to. In other words, microphones will begin hot and only change at CBS’ discretion.
Will candidates get questions beforehand?
No, candidates will not receive the topics or questions in advance, per CBS News. Campaign staff on both sides will not be allowed to interact with their candidates at any time.
The only permissible items allowed with Vance and Walz are water bottles, pens and a notepad. These will be provided by CBS.
Will Vance and Walz be seated?
According to CBS News, both parties have agreed to stand throughout the debate, something of a rarity for vice presidential candidates.
Not since the 2008 VP debate between Joe Biden and Sarah Palin have the Republican and Democratic running mates stood behind the lectern. Both presidential debates this election cycle were undertaken standing up.
Who are the moderators?
Norah O’Donnell of “CBS Evening News” and Margaret Brennan of “Face the Nation” will moderate the debate.