The upcoming vice presidential debate between Republican JD Vance and Democrat Tim Walz will feature unmuted microphones, a significant change from previous presidential debates where candidates' mics were muted when not speaking. CBS News, which is hosting the debate, retains the right to turn off microphones if necessary. The event will last 90 minutes with no live audience and will follow a structured format allowing each candidate two minutes to answer questions, two minutes for responses, and one minute for rebuttals. Candidates will not receive questions in advance, and they cannot use notes or props. Vance won a coin toss and will give his closing statement second, after Walz. The debate is set for Tuesday, October 1, at 9 p.m. ET and will be moderated by Norah O’Donnell and Margaret Brennan.