Former Obama adviser David Axelrod has criticized Kamala Harris' vice presidential pick Tim Walz for avoiding TV interviews, stating that it left the Democrat governor at a disadvantage when it comes to the debate.
Former Obama adviser David Axelrod has called out Kamala Harris' vice presidential pick Tim Walz for dodging TV interviews, adding that he was "perplexed" as it put Walz at a disadvantage when it comes to the debate.
The senior political commentator was asked by CNN host Jake Tapper about how Walz suddenly disappeared from television over the course of the campaign.
David Axelrod Blasts Tim Walz for Dodging TV Interviews, Putting Himself at a Debate Disadvantage
"I've been bewildered a little bit by the absence of both the presidential candidate and the vice presidential candidate on television since they became the nominees, because that's how people get to know you. And they haven't really spent a lot of time with either of them before now," Axelrod said.
"He was all over before he became the nominee when he was campaigning for vice president," he added.
David Axelrod Blasts Tim Walz for Dodging TV Interviews, Putting Himself at a Debate Disadvantage
Axelrod concluded that Walz put himself at a disadvantage by avoiding TV interviews.
"So I also think that it may be a little bit of a problem for Waltz having not done this. Sitting with [the media] is good prep for debates. It's good batting practice for these events. Waltz has not been doing it. So I do question that," he said, "It's bewildering."
David Axelrod Blasts Tim Walz for Dodging TV Interviews, Putting Himself at a Debate Disadvantage
Harris has also taken heat for largely avoiding the press. For example, in the 72 days as the official Democratic nominee, she has yet to hold a single official press conference.
In recent weeks, Harris has stepped up her interviews after criticism for leaning too much on scripted appearances. She has been doing radio hits and a solo sit-down with a Philadelphia TV station. She also spoke to MSNBC’s Stephanie Ruhle and she made time to hang out with supporter Oprah Winfrey last month.
Axelrod's comments come as the vice presidential debate between Walz and Republican incumbent Mike Pence is set to take place on October 7.
Pence has been a regular presence on television since he joined the Trump administration, and he is expected to use his debate experience to his advantage.
Walz, on the other hand, has limited experience with national debates. His absence from television has raised concerns that he may not be prepared for the high-stakes vice presidential debate.
If Walz wants to be successful in the debate, he will need to overcome his lack of experience and do a good job of connecting with voters. He will also need to be able to effectively defend Harris' record and vision for the country.
The vice presidential debate is an important opportunity for Walz to make an impression on voters and show that he is ready to be vice president. However, his lack of TV experience could put him at a disadvantage.
