JD Vance schooled by college student Marcus over debate comments during post-debate analysis

JD Vance was challenged by a college student during MSNBC’s post-debate analysis, calling out his comments

Republican vice presidential candidate JD Vance faced criticism from a college student during MSNBC's post-vice presidential debate analysis on Tuesday. Vance, Donald Trump’s running mate, argued that Vice President Kamala Harris had failed to deliver on the promises she was making ahead of the 2024 election, as the Democratic presidential nominee. His comments were met with frustration by a student, Marcus, from Oakland University in Rochester, Michigan, who pointed out flaws in Vance’s argument.

Marcus dismantles one of JD Vance's main talking points in tonight's debate with the application of a little high school civics. cc @jacobsoboroff pic.twitter.com/R6vZAAhSBw

— Maddow Blog (@MaddowBlog) October 2, 2024

“If anybody took a high school civics class, they’d know what the vice president can and can’t do,” Marcus told MSNBC’s Jacob Soboroff. He further explained that neither Vance nor his Democratic rival, Tim Walz, addressed what executive actions they would take because, “That’s not how the vice presidency works. You don’t get to do what you want, you do what the president delegates you to do.”

The student's remarks highlighted a common misunderstanding about the role of the vice president. Marcus criticized both candidates for failing to clarify the limitations of the office during the debate.

The exchange was part of MSNBC’s broader analysis following the debate, which saw Vance and Walz clashing over various policy issues. Vance’s comments about Harris sparked particular debate, drawing attention from viewers and analysts alike.