Minnesota Governor Tim Walz is diligently preparing for the upcoming vice presidential debate set to take place on Oct. 1 in New York City against Senator JD Vance. Sources familiar with the process confirmed to ABC News that Governor Walz has been actively engaged in mock debates and policy sessions as part of his debate preparations.

To enhance his readiness, Governor Walz has already participated in mock debates where Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg stood in as a Vance stand-in. Additionally, he has been engaging in policy sessions with his trusted aides, Biden White House alumni, and members of the Harris-Walz campaign team. Sources mentioned that Buttigieg recently visited Minneapolis to aid Governor Walz in his debate preparation, emphasizing the seriousness with which the Governor is approaching the upcoming debate.

Governor Walz's debate preparations are being overseen by key figures such as Biden White House alumni Rob Friedlander and Zayn Siddique. Both Friedlander and Siddique are leading the preparations, with support from a dedicated team consisting of individuals like Liz Allen, a seasoned political operative, and Chris Schmitter, a longtime aide to Governor Walz. The vice presidential debate, which will be hosted by CBS News, will see Governor Walz and Senator Vance taking the stage, moderated by Norah O'Donnell and Margaret Brennan from CBS News.