The VP Debate Circus: A Theatrical Sideshow in a Decided Race

As the lights dim and the vice-presidential candidates take the stage tonight, let’s cut through the bullshit: these debates are more about spectacle and ratings than substance. Historically, they’ve been about as impactful as a whisper in a hurricane. And since voters in my home state of Pennsylvania, along with other battleground states are already clutching their ballots, the relevance of this political theater is even more questionable. I already voted. I hope you have made up your mind by now, for Christ in Heaven's sake.

Let’s jog our memories—or try to. Back in 1988, there was a VP debate between Lloyd Bentsen and Dan Quayle. If you’re scratching your head wondering who the fuck Lloyd Bentsen is, you’re not alone. Sure, he delivered that killer line, “You’re no Jack Kennedy,” which became a political catchphrase for a hot minute. But did it change anything? Nope. Bush and Quayle waltzed into the White House anyway. The fact that we barely remember these guys underscores just how forgettable VP debates can be—a fleeting ratings grab with no real impact.

Then came 2008, and suddenly the VP debate had some juice. Sarah Palin burst onto the scene, an attractive new face meant to counter the undeniable charisma of Barack Obama. She galvanized the conservative base in a way that made headlines. But even with all that media frenzy, did it sway the election? Not really. Obama and Biden still clinched the victory. Palin’s moment in the spotlight was more of a blip than a game-changer. Where is Sarah Palin now??

Fast forward to 2016. Tim Kaine and Mike Pence took the stage, and let’s be honest—most of us have already forgotten that debate ever happened. It was the political equivalent of white noise. Neither delivered a standout moment, and neither shifted the needle. The election’s outcome hinged on other factors entirely.  The only thing I remember from the debate is the fly that sat on Mike Pence's head while he backed the blue while black Americans were realing from George Floyd getting choked out.

This year, early voting adds another layer to this already lukewarm event. In Pennsylvania, a critical swing state, over 2 million mail-in ballots have been requested, and more than half have already been returned according to the Pennsylvania Department of State. While the candidates rehearse their rehearsed indignation and pre-packaged zingers, a significant chunk of voters have already made their decisions. The debate becomes less a chance to persuade and more a performance for the sake of tradition.

Let’s talk about JD Vance, a case study in political flip-flopping if there ever was one. Here’s a guy who initially couldn’t stand Trump—called him “noxious,” and lamented his impact on America’s moral compass. Fast forward to his Senate campaign, and suddenly he’s Trump’s biggest fan, parroting his bombastic rhetoric like it’s the gospel truth. What’s memorable here isn’t just the 180-degree turn; it’s the audacity of thinking no one would notice. Vance’s transformation is a glaring example of how political ambition often trumps integrity in today’s landscape.

Let’s not let the media off the hook. They’re gearing up to dissect every smirk, every interruption, every awkward pause. Social media will be flooded with clips and memes before the debate even wraps up. But where does that leave us? Distracted by the shiny objects, missing the substance—if there’s any to begin with.

From my perspective, it’s disheartening to see the normalization of Trump’s brand of politics. The fact that politicians like JD Vance feel compelled to mimic his style speaks volumes about the current state of affairs. It’s a sad commentary when substance takes a backseat to sensationalism.

So, will tonight’s vice-presidential debate shift the election? Highly unlikely. It’s a scripted play in a theater that’s already closing up for the night. The real issues—climate change, healthcare, systemic inequality—require more than canned responses and performative outrage.

Instead of getting swept up in the theatrics, let’s focus on what truly matters. Vote if you haven’t already. Engage in meaningful conversations. Hold elected officials accountable—not just for what they say under the spotlight, but for what they do when the cameras are off.

Because at the end of the day, democracy isn’t a spectator sport—it’s a participatory marathon. No amount of debate-stage drama is going to change that.

Granted after all of this nonsense, I am going to live stream the debate as if it matters. Subscribe and tune in on YouTube.