Washington — Vice presidential candidates Gov. Tim Walz and Sen. JD Vance are set to engage in their first and only debate tonight in New York, creating a pivotal moment for voters as ballots have already begun to be mailed out to constituents weeks ahead of Election Day.

The Importance of Tonight’s Debate

This event carries significant weight in the electoral process as it offers both candidates a vital opportunity to present their visions and policies directly to the electorate. The stakes are notably high, with the outcome of this debate potentially influencing undecided voters in crucial swing states.

Hosted by CBS News, the much-anticipated vice presidential debate will see Walz representing the Democratic Party and Vance representing the Republican Party. The debate will be moderated by esteemed journalists Norah O’Donnell, anchor and managing editor of “CBS Evening News,” and Margaret Brennan, who serves as both moderator of “Face the Nation” and chief foreign affairs correspondent for CBS. Their experience is expected to ensure that the debate remains fair and focused, allowing voters to glean insights into each candidate’s stance on pressing issues.

How to Watch the VP Debate on Cable

Fans of political discourse can tune into the debate through the CBS television network, where it will commence at 9 p.m. ET. Pre-debate coverage will kick off at 8 p.m. ET on CBS, offering viewers context and analysis leading up to the event. Those unsure of their local CBS station can easily find it here.

Streaming Options for the VP Debate

For those who prefer digital viewing, the debate will also be conveniently streamed through the free CBS News app available on connected TV devices and smartphones. The event can additionally be watched via Paramount+ and on any platform where CBS News 24/7 streams, including CBSNews.com and YouTube. Viewers can catch the extensive pre-debate coverage that begins at 4 p.m. ET on CBS News 24/7.

Replay Availability for the VP Debate

For those who may miss the live broadcast, worry not! The complete debate will be accessible afterward on CBS News’ YouTube page as well as on CBSNews.com, allowing viewers to watch at their convenience.

Location of the Debate

The debate is slated to take place at the CBS Broadcast Center in New York City. Notably, similar to the presidential debate between Trump and Harris, there will be no live audience in attendance, making the atmosphere distinctly focused on dialogue rather than crowd interaction.

Key Details About the Debate Format

This highly anticipated 90-minute debate occurs just over a month before Election Day and follows shortly after the first debate between their running mates—Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump. Although there will be no opening statements from Walz and Vance, each candidate will have two minutes allocated for closing remarks as stipulated by CBS News’ debate regulations. This format is designed to ensure that both candidates have adequate time to articulate their final thoughts and persuade viewers.

While it is confirmed that Walz and Vance will only face off once on the debate stage, the political landscape remains uncertain regarding further debates between Harris and Trump. Notably, Vice President Harris has accepted an invitation from CNN for a second debate set for October 23, while Trump has indicated that it may be too late for additional engagements.

Candidate Backgrounds and Campaign Efforts

In the lead-up to this debate, both candidates have diligently traversed the campaign trail to bolster their connections with voters. Walz, who serves as the governor of Minnesota, boasts over a decade of experience in the U.S. House. Meanwhile, Vance represents Ohio in the Senate, having won his seat in the 2022 midterm elections after rising to prominence through his memoir “Hillbilly Elegy” published in 2016.

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CBS News will host the single planned vice presidential debate between Vance and Walz on Tuesday, Oct. 1, at 9 p.m. ET on CBS and CBS News 24/7. Don’t forget to download the free CBS News app for live coverage, post-debate analyses, fact-checking, and much more.