Despite a power outage during his mock debate preparations, Republican vice presidential nominee JD Vance continued his training, using lanterns for lighting and cellphones for timers.
Republican vice presidential nominee Sen. JD Vance remained undeterred by a power outage that struck during his mock debate preparations for Tuesday's showdown with Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz.
Over the past month, Vance, former President Trump's running mate, engaged in a series of "murder board" sessions with his team. These sessions involve a group of individuals posing tough questions and having candid discussions to help prepare for a difficult exam or test, in this case, the vice presidential debate.
JD Vance Prepares for Vice Presidential Debate Despite Power Outage
Recently, Vance conducted a mock debate with Rep. Tom Emmer of Minnesota, the House majority whip, who portrayed Walz. Former Trump administration Treasury Department assistant secretary Monica Crowley assumed the role of a CBS News moderator, hosting the debate in New York City.
Halfway through the mock debate, a strong storm caused a power outage in the vicinity of Cincinnati, Ohio, where Vance resides and where the prep session was held. However, the source who shared the details with Fox News revealed that Vance and his team carried on, using lanterns for illumination and cellphones as timers.
JD Vance Prepares for Vice Presidential Debate Despite Power Outage
Emmer, who led the House Republicans' campaign committee in 2020 and 2022, commented on his role in the mock debate, saying, "It’s an honor to be asked to play a very small part in helping JD and President Trump expose the failures of Kamala Harris and Tim Walz."
Emmer, who overlapped with Walz in the House for four years before Walz became Minnesota governor, described the challenges of portraying his fellow Minnesotan. "I do know him probably as well or better than most on the Republican side," Emmer said. "The hardest part of playing Walz… is trying to tell lies with a straight face, because that’s what he does. He’s good at the debate game, but there isn’t substance there. There’s a lot of air."
JD Vance Prepares for Vice Presidential Debate Despite Power Outage
Former President Trump stated that he has not provided specific advice to Vance, expressing confidence in his running mate's abilities. "No, he doesn't need it," Trump told reporters. "He's in good shape."
As part of their strategy, the Trump campaign is emphasizing Walz's debate proficiency. "Walz is very good in debates. I want to repeat that. Tim Walz is very good in debates. Really good. He's been a politician for nearly 20 years. He'll be very well prepared for tomorrow night," Trump campaign senior adviser Jason Miller said.
JD Vance Prepares for Vice Presidential Debate Despite Power Outage
Vance, his family, and key aides arrived in New York City on the eve of the debate. According to sources close to the Republican vice presidential nominee, he will address a gathering of prominent Republican donors behind closed doors at the American Opportunity Alliance.
