J. D. Vance and Tim Walz battled each other to a statistical tie in the polls. Both even improved their standing with the public in surveys, thanks to their spirited but cordial clash, which was policy-heavy. Though Vance looked and sounded more polished, his refusal to accept the 2020 election results at the end cost him the debate, and could lose his ticket the 2024 election.
Refusing to answer, or even accept, the results of the 2020 election at the end of the debate likely undermined Vance’s generally positive image. It will likely cost his ticket valuable votes that could influence the election, as big of a turning point in a debate as we’ve ever seen. Vance dodged the question, claimed to “care more about the future,” and chose to pick on Kamala Harris for combatting misinformation. It showed not only a dismissive attitude toward one of the darkest days in American history, but a willingness to tolerate, or encourage, similar attempts to overthrow democracy in the near future.
John A. Tures is a professor of political science at LaGrange College in Georgia. He can be reached at jtures@lagrange.edu. His Twitter account is @JohnTures2.
...HEAT ADVISORY NOW IN EFFECT UNTIL 9 PM CDT SUNDAY...
* WHAT...Heat index values up to 109.
* WHERE...All of Central Alabama.
* WHEN...Until 9 PM CDT Sunday.
* IMPACTS...Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat
illnesses.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...
Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of
the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young children and
pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any
circumstances.
Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When
possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or
evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat
stoke. Wear light weight and loose fitting clothing when possible and
drink plenty of water.
To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and
Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in
shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat
should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an
emergency! Call 9 1 1.
&&
