At the debate, Mike Pence has the difficult task of defending Donald Trump

Preparing the debate stage for the vice presidential debate.
(Image credit: PAUL J. RICHARDS/AFP/Getty Images)

Indiana Gov. Mike Pence has been practicing for the one and only vice presidential debate for a month, but even that hasn't reassured Republicans of his hopes of beating Sen. Tim Kaine on Tuesday night. Of the Republicans in Politico's Caucus, which is made up of anonymous strategists, politicians, and activists in swing states, only 74 percent think Pence will win. By comparison, 97 percent of Democrats think Kaine will come out on top.

That is not to discredit Pence himself, although one Republican admitted, "Tim Kaine is the relatable neighbor next door. Mike Pence is the guy you feel the need to impress in church." Rather, Pence is expected to immediately be on the defensive, protecting Donald Trump from a torrent of attacks from Kaine.

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Jeva Lange

Jeva Lange was the executive editor at TheWeek.com. She formerly served as The Week's deputy editor and culture critic. She is also a contributor to Screen Slate, and her writing has appeared in The New York Daily News, The Awl, Vice, and Gothamist, among other publications. Jeva lives in New York City. Follow her on Twitter.