The Political Scene | The New Yorker cover image

The Political Scene | The New Yorker

Will J. D. Vance’s Debate Victory Matter on Election Day?

Oct 2, 2024
Clare Malone and Vinson Cunningham, both staff writers at The New Yorker, dive deep into the recent Vice-Presidential debate featuring J.D. Vance. They analyze how Vance attempted to soften Trumpism while tackling contentious topics like climate policy and child care. The discussion highlights the importance of likability versus competency among undecided voters, the evolving conservative discourse, and the implications of Vance's performance for the upcoming election. Tune in for sharp insights on an election that could redefine political dynamics!
37:43

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Quick takeaways

  • J. D. Vance’s polished performance in the debate aimed to soften Trumpism, portraying a relatable image while navigating contentious issues.
  • The debate highlighted a shift in voter priorities towards candidates' competencies and policy details, rather than personal likability.

Deep dives

Debate Dynamics and Candidate Performance

The recent debate showcased contrasting performances between JD Vance and Tim Walls, highlighting Vance's agility in navigating questions and avoiding his more extreme rhetoric while presenting a polished front. Walls, despite his significance as a candidate, appeared less impactful, failing to capitalize on opportunities to challenge Vance's previous statements effectively. The perception emerged that Walls conducted himself as if it were a traditional debate, rather than adapting to the more charged political climate shaped by Vance’s style. This allowed Vance to maintain control of the narrative, cleverly co-opting compatibility with Walls to bolster his image.

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