A Fox News Digital focus group of Republicans, Democrats, and independents reacted to key moments from the CBS News Vice Presidential Debate between Republican Ohio Sen. JD Vance and Democratic Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, offering real-time insights into their evaluations of the candidates' statements.
JD Vance's stance on the immigration crisis, advocating for a halt to "bleeding" at the border, elicited a polarized response from viewers. While Republicans reacted favorably to his suggestion to revert to former President Trump's border policies, Democrats vehemently opposed the idea. Independents remained neutral, but their views shifted when Vance highlighted Trump's previous approach to border management.
Governor Tim Walz's rejoinder regarding the migrant crisis, criticizing the Trump administration and promoting a bipartisan immigration bill, was met with moderate to high approval from Democrats and independents. Republicans, however, expressed unfavorable views toward Walz's remarks.
Top Moments from the 2024 Vice Presidential Debate: A Real-Time Analysis
Vance's assertion that he and Donald Trump support "clean air, clean water" when questioned about climate change prompted different reactions among voters. Independents and Democrats initially expressed skepticism, but their support gradually rose as Vance discussed reducing emissions through increased American manufacturing and energy production. Republicans maintained consistent support throughout his statement.
One of Walz's most challenging moments during the debate involved his earlier claim of being present at the Tiananmen Square protests in Hong Kong in 1989. His subsequent admission of a misstatement and his acknowledgment of potential "knucklehead" behavior received poor to moderate reviews across the board.
Top Moments from the 2024 Vice Presidential Debate: A Real-Time Analysis
In response to CBS's announcement of no live fact-checking during the debate, moderator Margaret Brennan interjected to correct Vance's assertion that illegal immigrants are overwhelming public resources in Springfield, Ohio. Independents and Republicans disapproved of the moderator's action, while Democrats remained neutral.
When confronted about his past criticism of his running mate, Vance stated that he was "wrong" about Trump. Independents showed mixed reactions, while Republicans expressed high approval.
Top Moments from the 2024 Vice Presidential Debate: A Real-Time Analysis
Walz's response to a question about abortion in Minnesota, one of the least restrictive states, was met with mixed reactions. While Republicans disapproved, independents and Democrats initially approved but later remained neutral. Walz maintained that abortion is a fundamental human right.
When Vance expressed sympathy for Walz's son, who witnessed a shooting, all voters responded positively. Vance's compassionate remark resonated across the political spectrum.
Top Moments from the 2024 Vice Presidential Debate: A Real-Time Analysis
Independents gave Vance a low rating when he evaded Walz's question about whether Trump lost the 2020 election, saying he was "focused on the future." Republicans remained unimpressed with Walz's questioning, while Democrats and independents disapproved of Vance's avoidance.
Liberal media outlets repeatedly highlighted the clip of Walz questioning Vance about Trump's election loss, characterizing it as a strong moment for Walz in an otherwise Vance-dominated debate.
Top Moments from the 2024 Vice Presidential Debate: A Real-Time Analysis
