Far be it from me to offer advice to the US election machine. You got yourself in this mess and you must get out of it pretty soon.
My suggestion is good in theory but may be difficult to put in practice. It is intended to solve the problem that is apparent to me i.e. there seem to be a lot of people who do not like either candidate.
Just have four candidates on the ballot paper. That way, you will get a good idea of those that want a Republican vote but HATE trump . Also it will be a direct people's vote for V. President and give a good indication of candidates for the 2028 election . Finally those who are worried about Biden's age will get a good back-up on a people's mandate.
Why does there have to be just two candidates?
You are in a position where a politician cannot help but lie to get what they want.
Trump uses this to he maximum.
Better to leave that position.