So Who Are These Vice Presidential Picks Meant To Appeal To?

Update: 2024-09-26

Digest

This episode of the NPR Politics Podcast examines the campaign strategies of JD Vance and Tim Walls, the running mates for Donald Trump and Kamala Harris, respectively. The episode explores their media appearances, messaging, and how they are attempting to appeal to different voter demographics. The podcast delves into Tim Walls' campaign strategy, focusing on his efforts to appeal to blue-collar voters in key swing states. The episode examines his use of social media, his "regular guy" persona, and how he is attempting to attract male voters who may be disillusioned with the Democratic Party. Walls is presenting himself as a "midwestern dad" who embodies traditional values and is relatable to working-class men. He is also emphasizing his support for policies that appeal to this demographic, such as his stance on abortion rights. The podcast also discusses the significance of Project 2025, a conservative policy roadmap that has become a focal point of debate in the current election cycle. Democrats criticize its proposals as harmful to the middle class, while Republicans promote it as a path to economic prosperity.

Outlines

00:00:46

Campaign Strategies of JD Vance and Tim Walls

This episode of the NPR Politics Podcast discusses the strategies of JD Vance and Tim Walls, the running mates for Donald Trump and Kamala Harris, respectively. The episode explores their media appearances, messaging, and how they are attempting to appeal to different voter demographics.

00:09:36

Tim Walls' Campaign Strategy: Targeting Blue-Collar Voters

The podcast delves into Tim Walls' campaign strategy, focusing on his efforts to appeal to blue-collar voters in key swing states. The episode examines his use of social media, his "regular guy" persona, and how he is attempting to attract male voters who may be disillusioned with the Democratic Party.

Keywords

Blue Wall States

Blue Wall States refer to a group of states that have historically voted for Democratic presidential candidates. These states, including Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Wisconsin, are considered crucial in determining the outcome of presidential elections.

Midwestern Dude

This term refers to a stereotypical image of a man from the Midwest, often associated with traits like hard work, honesty, and a down-to-earth demeanor. It is often used to describe someone who is seen as relatable and authentic.

Project 2025

Project 2025 is a conservative policy roadmap developed by the Heritage Foundation. It outlines a set of proposals aimed at reducing government spending, cutting taxes, and promoting economic growth. It has become a focal point of debate in the current election cycle.

Manliness

This term refers to the qualities and behaviors traditionally associated with masculinity. In the context of this podcast, it is discussed in relation to how both the Republican and Democratic parties are attempting to appeal to male voters.

Coach Walls

This nickname refers to Tim Walls' background as a former football coach. It highlights his appeal to voters who value leadership, discipline, and a strong work ethic.

Q&A

What are the key differences in the campaign strategies of JD Vance and Tim Walls?
JD Vance is focusing on reaching young male voters through social media and conservative podcasts, while Tim Walls is targeting blue-collar voters in key swing states by emphasizing his "regular guy" persona and appealing to their values.
How is Tim Walls attempting to attract male voters who may be disillusioned with the Democratic Party?
Walls is presenting himself as a "midwestern dad" who embodies traditional values and is relatable to working-class men. He is also emphasizing his support for policies that appeal to this demographic, such as his stance on abortion rights.
What is the significance of Project 2025 in the current election cycle?
Project 2025 is a conservative policy roadmap that has become a focal point of debate, with Democrats criticizing its proposals as harmful to the middle class and Republicans promoting it as a path to economic prosperity.

Show Notes

Kamala Harris' running mate Gov. Tim Walz has spent his time in the key mid-west states and is in many ways fulfilling the core obligation of a VP pick: do no harm. Sen. JD Vance, Trump's pick, has been campaigning across the battlegrounds and has often found himself driving the news cycle. They're both largely focused on appealing to men.

This episode: political correspondent Susan Davis, senior White House correspondent Tamara Keith, and campaign correspondent Danielle Kurtzleben.

The podcast is produced by Jeongyoon Han, Casey Morell and Kelli Wessinger. Our editor is Eric McDaniel. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi.

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