Republican Vice President nominee JD Vance went head to head with Democratic rival Tim Walz last night in what was likely their only televised debate.

Almost two hours in length, the debate was a more civil affair than those involving former President Donald Trump. Both Vance and Walz managed to land political punches on their opponent. Some feel Vance, with his background as a Yale-educated law hgraduate, came off better than Walz. Others praised Walz for highlighting GOP policies on reproductive rights.

However, aside from the content of the debate, some viewers found themselves distracted … by Vance’s appearance.

It has long been rumored that the Ohio Senator wears eyeliner.

Of course, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with men wearing eyeliner. It would also be unusual for any politician taking part in a televised debate not to be wearing some makeup when faced with harsh TV lighting.

However, makeup also goes against the macho, alpha-male image Republican men want to promote, especially when they’re supporting “Don’t Say Gay” bills and other anti-queer policies. For this reason, Republican males are reluctant to admit to using makeup for appearances.

“I can confirm he has long eyelashes and they cast a shadow”

One Republican only too happy to admit to makeup use is former drag queen, turned disgraced ex-member of Congress, George Santos.

Santos was kicked out of the House of Representatives last December. He recently agreed to a plea deal with prosecutors, admitting charges of deception and fraud. He’s awaiting sentencing.

The gay, former Representative from New York, tweeted throughout last night’s debate on CBS.

He says that in his expert opinion (i.e. meeting Vance years ago), the Ohio senator does not wear eyeliner.

“Vance does NOT use eye liner,” he tweeted. “I’ve met him in person before he was a senator and I can confirm he has long eyelashes and they cast a shadow on his waterline when is studios full of lights…

“Grow up people!”

Santos agreed with someone who praised Vance for having “gorgeous eyes”.

Others, understandably, had a hard time giving credibility to anything Santos said.

Santos pleads guilty

In August, Santos pleaded guilty to wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. Although the plea means he now avoids a prolonged trial, he is still likely to face jail time. Aggravated identity theft alone carries a mandatory two-year jail sentence. Legal experts suspect he might get between 6-7 years.

Santos will be sentenced on February 7. He must also pay nearly $373,750 in restitution and forfeit over $205,000. He needs to come up with the latter at least 30 days before his sentencing.

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