Pete Buttigieg Plays Vance in Walz’s Debate Prep

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg is assisting Minnesota Governor Tim Walz in his preparations for an upcoming vice-presidential debate against Senator JD Vance of Ohio, scheduled for October 1. Buttigieg, known for his effective communication skills, previously played a similar role for Kamala Harris during her 2020 debate prep against Mike Pence. His involvement in Walz's preparations has transitioned from virtual to in-person sessions in Minneapolis, where he has been helping the campaign team informally without formal setups. Walz's debate team includes experienced advisers such as Rob Friedlander and Zayn Siddique, along with longtime aide Chris Schmitter and campaign chief of staff Liz Allen. The team is gearing up for a more intensive debate camp as the event approaches, with Walz acknowledging the challenge posed by Vance, who he describes as well-prepared and academically accomplished. Walz aims to present a strong case for the middle class, emphasizing the importance of being well-informed. Buttigieg has been vocal about his views on Vance, highlighting the discontent many Americans feel towards the recent direction of the Republican Party. He expressed a desire to engage in discussions about Vance's policies and worldview during the debate. The preparations are crucial for Walz as he seeks to effectively communicate his message and counter Vance's arguments. The collaboration between Buttigieg and Walz underscores the strategic importance of debate preparation in political campaigns, especially as candidates aim to connect with voters and articulate their positions clearly. As the debate date nears, the focus will intensify on how well Walz can leverage Buttigieg's insights and experience to navigate the challenges ahead.