**High-Stakes VP Debate: JD Vance and Tim Walz Prepare to Face Off**

Tonight, Republican Ohio Senator JD Vance and Democratic Minnesota Governor Tim Walz will meet in their first and highly anticipated vice-presidential debate. With Election Day just five weeks away, each candidate aims to solidify their appeal to voters during this critical moment in the campaign.

As the debate unfolds, former President Donald Trump will be rallying supporters in Wisconsin, while Vice President Kamala Harris focuses on pivotal battleground states. Both major political campaigns are in a final sprint to sway the electorate ahead of November 5.

Hosted by CBS News, the debate will be broadcast live on CNN at 9 p.m. ET, with a format that includes 90 minutes of discussion. Each candidate will have two minutes to respond to questions and rebuttals. CNN will also provide real-time updates and fact checks throughout the event. Notably, there will be no studio audience, and the network reserves the right to mute candidates' microphones if necessary.

The election landscape is already buzzing, with early voting underway in several states. Voters are encouraged to consult CNN's voter handbook for comprehensive information on the 2024 candidates and their positions on key issues.

Meanwhile, a courtroom in Georgia has also captured attention. Fulton County Superior Court Judge Robert McBurney acknowledged the need for clarity regarding a "vague" election certification rule recently passed, which some argue could cause post-Election Day confusion. The rule mandates that county officials perform a "reasonable inquiry" before certifying election results. Another rule requiring a hand-count of ballots is also being challenged by Democrats.

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz has arrived in New York City for the debate, greeted by supporters and opponents alike. As preparations continue, JD Vance's team remains confident, asserting that he is well-prepared and composed.

Vice President Kamala Harris is redirecting her campaign efforts to Georgia, which has recently been impacted by Hurricane Helene, thus canceling an event in Pennsylvania. Harris's schedule also includes an upcoming visit to North Carolina.

JD Vance, who spent a relaxed morning in New York City with his wife, Usha, will be joined by senior Trump campaign members and political advisers during the debate. In a strategic move, the Democratic National Committee projected supportive messages for Tim Walz and critical comments about Donald Trump onto Trump Tower in New York City on Monday night, adding to the charged pre-debate atmosphere.

As the nation watches these pivotal moments unfold, the debate promises to significantly impact the remaining weeks of this high-stakes election season.