The upcoming vice presidential debate between J.D. Vance and Tim Walz may mark the final debate of the 2024 campaign season, pending any late additions to the schedule. Both candidates, Vance representing the Republican ticket as a senator from Ohio and Walz as the Democratic governor of Minnesota, are expected to play the role of attack dog for their respective presidential nominees. The debate, hosted by CBS News in New York, could potentially influence voters on the margins due to the tight polls.
A recent AP-NORC poll revealed that Walz is more favorably viewed than Vance, presenting an additional challenge for the Republican candidate. Despite Vance's assertion that he is well-prepared due to his established public policy views, he has engaged in debate preparation sessions with key figures such as his wife, senior aides, and Rep. Tom Emmer. On the other hand, Walz has conducted his debate prep with Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg standing in for Vance.
Trump Campaigns in Wisconsin Ahead of VP Debate
Former President Donald Trump visited Wisconsin, a critical swing state, to address economic issues. Trump's itinerary included stops in Waunakee and Milwaukee, targeting conservative suburbs where his support has waned. Dane County, the location of Trump's first visit, is a key economic hub in Wisconsin, home to the University of Wisconsin.
Presidential Candidates Modify Campaign Plans Due to Hurricane Helene
In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, Vice President Kamala Harris curtailed a campaign visit to Las Vegas, while Trump traveled to Georgia to assess the storm's impact. The hurricane's toll has surpassed 130 lives, with significant damage reported in North Carolina. Natural disasters like Hurricane Helene pose political challenges for elected officials, with President Joe Biden planning to survey the devastation firsthand.
Trump's Hurricane Relief Fundraiser Surpasses $1 Million
A GoFundMe campaign initiated by Trump to aid Hurricane Helene victims has raised over $1 million. The fundraiser aims to provide financial assistance to those affected by the disaster, with all donations directed towards relief efforts. Trump also distributed supplies in Valdosta, Georgia, in collaboration with the Christian relief organization Samaritan’s Purse.
Trump Criticizes US Response to Helene
Former President Trump criticized the Biden administration's handling of Hurricane Helene's aftermath, despite his own controversial disaster-response record. Trump's past actions include delaying aid to Puerto Rico and proposing cuts to FEMA and the National Weather Service.
Biden Responds to Trump's False Statements on Federal Hurricane Response
President Biden refuted Trump's claims regarding federal coordination with Georgia officials post-Hurricane Helene. Biden accused Trump of spreading misinformation and emphasized the administration's commitment to disaster relief efforts.
North Carolina Officials Ensure Voting Access Post-Hurricane Helene
North Carolina election officials are working to facilitate voting access for individuals in areas severely impacted by Hurricane Helene. Measures include allowing voters to declare 'natural disaster' as a reason for not providing a photo ID and granting counties flexibility in reviewing absentee ballots leading up to Election Day.
