Vance and Walz: Key issues ahead of vice presidential debate

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On Tuesday, Sen. J.D. Vance (R-OH) and Gov. Tim Walz (D-MN) will participate in their first and only televised vice presidential debate. As the running mates for former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris, the debate will address key issues for voters.

Gov. Walz has implemented economic policies in Minnesota that expand social safety nets, including a child tax credit, free school meals, and universal paid family leave. He emphasizes the importance of addressing rising costs.

Sen. Vance supports Trump’s proposed tariffs, which could reach 20%, aimed at boosting domestic manufacturing. While he acknowledges potential consumer price increases, he believes the long-term benefits will outweigh the costs. He also advocates for a weaker dollar, deregulation, and an $11 minimum wage.

In Congress, Vance has backed legislation to enhance penalties for those who assault or kill police officers, focusing on immigration-related crime. He has criticized Kamala Harris’s performance as a former prosecutor, while Walz’s response to the 2020 George Floyd protests has also faced scrutiny.

As governor, Walz enacted public safety measures that include gun control reforms and increased funding for safety agencies. He has emphasized responsible gun ownership, drawing from his background as a veteran and gun owner.

Vance advocates for stringent immigration policies, including mass deportations and stricter border enforcement, and he criticizes Harris's role in immigration matters, citing the rise in illegal drugs, such as fentanyl.

Walz has taken a more progressive stance in Minnesota, expanding benefits for undocumented migrants, such as access to healthcare and driver’s licenses. He also supports pathways to citizenship for "Dreamers," individuals brought to the U.S. as children without legal status.

Vance identifies as "pro-life" and has previously supported a national abortion ban with specific exceptions. He now aligns with Trump’s view that abortion regulations should be determined by individual states.

In contrast, Walz has expanded access to abortion in Minnesota by signing a bill that codifies abortion rights and protects patients and providers involved in reproductive care.

Walz has supported the federal government’s authority to negotiate Medicare drug prices and enacted legislation that caps insulin costs for eligible individuals.

Vance and Trump have suggested changes to Obamacare, though specifics are lacking. Vance calls for healthcare system deregulation to enhance consumer choice.

Under Walz’s administration, Minnesota has reduced taxes on Social Security benefits. He has also supported tax increases on those earning over $400,000 to strengthen Social Security.

Vance shares Trump’s belief that a robust workforce and economic growth will support Social Security, opposing cuts to benefits or tax increases in favor of fostering economic development.