Vice Presidential Showdown: Vance vs. Walz Face Off in CBS News Debate with Real-Time Fact-Checking
Staff Editor CBS News to Host Third Vice Presidential Debate
CBS News is set to host the third vice presidential debate between Republican JD Vance and Democrat Tim Walz on Tuesday evening. The 90-minute event, scheduled to begin at 9 p.m. Eastern, will be moderated by CBS News anchors Norah O’Donnell and Margaret Brennan.
In a departure from recent debate formats, CBS News has announced that candidates will be responsible for fact-checking each other during the event. This decision comes in the wake of controversy surrounding previous debates, where moderators’ fact-checking efforts were criticized for perceived bias.
To address concerns about misinformation, CBS News Confirmed will provide real-time fact-checking on its live blog, social media platforms, and post-debate analysis. This approach aims to strike a balance between maintaining journalistic integrity and avoiding onstage confrontations.
The debate format will allow moderators to facilitate opportunities for candidates to rebut misstatements. Unlike previous debates, vice presidential candidates’ microphones will not be automatically muted during their opponent’s speaking time. However, CBS reserves the right to shut off a “hot mic” if necessary.
This high-stakes event comes at a crucial time for CBS News, currently ranked third in evening news ratings. With Norah O’Donnell stepping down and Margaret Brennan emerging as a rising star, the network is making its feed available for other networks to televise.
The debate will take place in a Manhattan studio without an audience, reflecting ongoing public health considerations. Each candidate will have two minutes for a closing statement, with Vance speaking last.
As uncertainty looms over future debates between presidential candidates Donald Trump and Kamala Harris, this vice presidential debate takes on added significance in the electoral landscape. CBS’ “60 Minutes” is also seeking back-to-back interviews with Harris and Trump, further highlighting the network’s commitment to comprehensive election coverage.
