Perspectives

As we approach the upcoming vice-presidential debate on October 2 hosted by CBS News, we expect the candidates to advocate for the policy positions put forth by their respective principals during the recent presidential debate. That debate featured Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump and highlighted significant policy differences likely to shape the comments of the candidates on Tuesday evening.

Since Harris took over the Democratic ticket, she has moderated Trump’s polling leads and shifted the dynamics of key swing state races, including Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin, where Biden trailed Trump in the lead-up to his July 21 decision to drop out of the race. In contrast to CNN’s June debate between Biden and Trump, the  moderators inserted real-time fact-checks on candidate responses. This drew criticism from the Trump campaign, who argued that the moderators did not pursue fact-checks on Harris to the same extent. This issue may be a recurring theme in the VP debate as each candidate charts their own truth.

Key Themes to Watch for in the VP Debate

Future Competitiveness

• During the presidential debate, Harris made a case for investing in future technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and quantum computing—two sectors she argued are vital to maintaining America’s global competitiveness and national security. Trump focused on the decline of U.S. chip production, blaming the Biden-Harris administration for weakening domestic manufacturing. Both candidates addressed the growing U.S.-China competition, particularly around AI, signaling concern over China’s rising influence in the tech industry. Harris criticized Trump for allowing China to purchase American chips during his presidency, claiming that it contributed to China’s military development. “He basically sold us out,” she stated. Harris emphasized that any future U.S. trade policy with China must prioritize American leadership in AI and quantum computing, advocating for investments in U.S. technology and workers.
• Expect Walz to build on Harris’s emphasis on AI, quantum computing, and technology as pillars of U.S. competitiveness and national security. As the governor of a state with a growing tech industry, Walz may stress how investments in these technologies can drive economic growth and keep the U.S. ahead in the global race, particularly against China. Meanwhile, Vance might challenge this perspective by emphasizing the importance of revitalizing traditional industries and ensuring that tech investments translate into tangible job creation for everyday Americans. Given his Ohio roots, he may argue for a balanced approach that incorporates both tech innovation and manufacturing infrastructure, viewing it as crucial for economic security.
• Additionally, the candidates may discuss policies to strengthen domestic semiconductor production, a topic that has gained bipartisan support due to concerns over supply chain vulnerabilities and national security. Given that the U.S. is still rebuilding its semiconductor manufacturing capabilities, both candidates will likely outline their strategies to ensure the U.S. remains competitive in this critical sector.

Economy and Trade

• During the presidential debate, Trump claimed, “I created one of the greatest economies in the history of our country. I’ll do it again and even better,” and blamed the Biden-Harris administration for issues like inflation and the border crisis, while also finding himself on the defensive, explaining past domestic policies. Harris, meanwhile, avoided directly addressing inflation but emphasized her support for small start-ups and an “opportunity economy.” Both candidates highlighted concerns about tariffs and inflation, but Harris framed Trump as out of touch with current economic challenges.
• In the upcoming VP debate, Walz will likely focus on Harris’s proposal to build an “opportunity economy” that benefits small businesses and tech startups. Expect him to emphasize Minnesota’s success stories and advocate for tech-forward policies that aim to prepare Americans for the jobs of tomorrow. He’ll likely emphasize investments in technology, AI, renewable energy, and a robust support system for small businesses, advocating for trade policies that protect American workers and strengthen U.S. competitiveness. Given Minnesota’s strong healthcare, technology, and agricultural sectors, Walz may also touch on trade policies that support these industries.
• Vance, on the other hand, will likely argue for revitalizing traditional industries like manufacturing, agriculture, and energy, presenting himself as a voice for working-class families. He’ll push for tougher trade policies against countries like China, emphasizing job creation through a skilled workforce, vocational training, and infrastructure improvements. As a proponent of American energy independence, Vance may also highlight the importance of supporting the oil and gas industry to reduce reliance on foreign energy sources.

Artificial Intelligence and Misinformation

• Following the presidential debate, Taylor Swift endorsed the Harris-Walz ticket and publicly shared her concerns about AI, particularly deepfakes, and their potential to spread misinformation during elections. Swift’s comments, amplified by her massive influence, reignited the national debate about AI’s role in shaping public discourse.
• This issue is likely to resurface in the VP debate, with both Walz and Vance addressing the challenges and opportunities that AI presents. Expect Walz to advocate for a regulatory framework to manage AI’s role in elections, pushing for greater transparency and protections against misinformation. He might also draw from his experience as Governor in promoting digital literacy and education to help the public better recognize misinformation.
• Vance, on the other hand, may spotlight the potential dangers posed by Big Tech in shaping public discourse. He may advocate for holding tech companies more accountable for misinformation on their platforms and emphasize the importance of preserving free speech.