The Vice Presidential Debate Got Big Social Media Attention, With or Without Mother's Approval

Justin Kirkland
·5 min read
Photo credit: ERIC BARADAT - Getty Images
Photo credit: ERIC BARADAT - Getty Images

From Esquire

On Wednesday evening, California Senator Kamala Harris and Vice President Mike Pence met up in Salt Lake City for the only vice presidential debate scheduled this election cycle. The two of them were seated 12 feet apart, which is twice the six-foot buffer that the CDC recommends for social distancing, but presumably only half the distance that Mother [Pence] is comfortable with when it comes to her husband and another woman being on stage together.

After a tumultuous news week in which [gestures wildly], this particular debate was one of the most monumental in recent history. Last week's near incomprehensible Fox News-hosted debate between President Donald Trump and former Vice President Joe Biden polarized viewers. The debate was followed by Trump's COVID-19 diagnosis (did you hear?), in addition to a litany of other positive COVID tests for those close to the President. The effect was evident at the debate—an audience rule was enacted that if any audience member removes a mask, they will be escorted out. With a suggested two-week quarantine period, the future of more presidential debates has been drawn into question.

The Pence/Harris debate has been a much-anticipated face off of this election season, without the threat of COVID-19 lingering overhead. Harris's fierce oratory style threatened to put Pence in a dangerous position, particularly when it came to the Trump administration's response to the pandemic. But Harris's history with criminal justice did not go unchecked by Pence over the 90 minute stand off.

One thing is certain—social media is, uh...rife with reactions and—as we call them in the biz—"hot takes." From plexiglass barriers and the MSNBC's moderation style to memes. At least we still have memes. Keep up with them right here. Don't touch that dial!

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