So That's what Class Looks Like: Lessons from the VP Debate

In an era where political debates often devolve quickly into shouting matches and personal attacks, last night’s vice presidential debate between Senator JD Vance of Ohio (R) and Governor Tim Walz of Minnesota (D) was a refreshing reminder of what has been missing from the debate stage for a long time: CLASS.

Although the two candidates disagreed on many topics—ranging from immigration to gun control and abortion—they managed to maintain a level of civility that has been sorely lacking in recent years.?

Specifically, the candidates’ comments demonstrated humility, empathy, and mutual respect for each other, as leaders, as fathers, and simply as people.

Respecting Each Other’s Intentions

One of the most striking moments of the debate was how Vance and Walz gave each other the benefit of the doubt, even on polarizing issues like immigration. Governor Walz led by saying, “I believe Senator Vance wants to solve this (immigration issue),” though he added his belief that former President Trump does not. Senator Vance reciprocated, stating, “I believe you (Walz) want to solve the problem, but I don’t believe Kamala Harris does.”

This exchange set the tone for a discussion that, while pointed, avoided personal attacks. Instead of questioning each other’s motives, they acknowledged that both sides were seeking solutions, even if they disagreed on the approach.

They attacked each other’s arguments, but not each other as people.

Admitting Mistakes and Embracing Growth

Humility was another feature of this debate. In politics, admitting mistakes is often seen as a sign of weakness to be exploited from every angle, but both Vance and Walz showed that humility can be a strength.?

For example, Governor Walz, with some self-deprecating humor, acknowledged, “I’ve been a knucklehead at times.”

Senator Vance also admitted that, referencing Roe v. Wade, “The Republican party needs to do more to win the trust of the American people on this issue.” He noted that many Ohioans had voted against his position and that he was “learning” from the experience.

This kind of introspection is rare in political debates, where sticking to one’s guns at any cost is often prioritized over growth.

Empathy as a Catalyst for Change

A heartfelt moment came during a discussion on gun violence. When asked why he once opposed a ban on assault weapons but has since changed his stance, Walz responded simply, “I sat with the Sandy Hook parents.” In other words, he listened to other people’s experiences, and was willing to learn from them.

Later in the debate, Walz shared that his 17-year-old son had witnessed a school shooting at a volleyball tournament. Senator Vance, stepping out of his debater role, responded with genuine empathy: “I didn’t know your 17-year-old witnessed a shooting, and I’m sorry about that. Christ have mercy, that is awful.”?

In this moment, Vance demonstrated how empathy can transcend political differences, speaking to Walz as a person and father, not as an opponent.

The Power of Sportsmanship

The debate concluded on a note of sportsmanship that is almost unheard of today. When asked if they would accept the results of the upcoming election, Walz stated, “We will shake hands, and the winner is the winner.”?

Vance expanded on this, saying, “We’re gonna shake hands after this debate and after this election… if Tim Walz is the next vice president, he’ll have my prayers, my best wishes, and my help whenever he wants it.”

This exchange was a reminder of how democracy should work—grace in winning or losing, with the greater good in mind.

A New Bar for Political Discourse

The Vance-Walz debate sets a new bar for political discourse, reminding us that it’s possible to disagree on policy while still respecting each other as individuals. Their ability to admit mistakes, learn from their experiences, and show empathy even in the heat of debate, arguably strengthening one’s executive presence instead of weakening it, is a powerful example of leadership.

While these two leaders may never be on the same ticket (but that’s an interesting idea after tonight, isn’t it!), their mutual respect and willingness to engage in civil discourse is a model that should be emulated by their peers – and perhaps their bosses!

?It was a reminder that, despite our differences, we can come together for the greater good. Here’s hoping this debate marks the beginning of a new era in political conversations, the corporate landscape, and the home front—where humility, empathy, and respect become the norm for leadership.