JD Vance debate prep strategy includes tapping prominent lawmaker to play Walz

Republican vice presidential candidate Sen. JD Vance, R-Ohio, has spent the last month reviewing plans, strategics and potential tough questions ahead of the Oct. 1 CBS Vice Presidential Debate against Democrat Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, according to a source familiar with the preparations by former President Trump's running mate.

House Majority Whip Rep. Tom Emmer, R-Minn., was selected to play Walz during mock debates to prepare Vance for the Minnesota governor's "folksy" Midwestern style, the source told Fox News Digital.

The source revealed that Vance has been doing most of his preparations at his home in Cincinnati or in online sessions with his team.

Members of Vance’s inner circle – including his wife Usha – as well as Trump campaign strategist Jason Miller have been involved in prep sessions. The source said those helping Vance are immersing themselves in honing Walz's debate style by watching videos of his past debates from his previous campaign runs.
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The source also pointed to Vance’s frequent media interviews as helping him prepare for the upcoming debate, set to take place in New York City.

During regular appearances on Sunday shows, Vance has gained experience in engaging in debate often with contentious network hosts and responding to attacks, the source added.

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Meanwhile, Walz’s mock debates will feature U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg acting as JD Vance's doppelganger, the Associated Press reported, citing people with knowledge of the candidate's preparations.

Trump already faced off against President Biden in a