Harris Promises 'Pragmatic' Approach to Economy

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Facts

  • Speaking at the Pittsburgh Economic Club in Pennsylvania, Democratic Party presidential candidate Vice Pres. Kamala Harris pledged to be 'pragmatic' and described herself as 'a capitalist' when discussing the economy on Wednesday.[1]
  • The Republican nominee, former Pres. Donald Trump, has previously accused Harris of being a Marxist, describing the Vice President as 'Comrade Kamala' on social media.[2]
  • Describing strengthening America's middle class as a major objective of her prospective presidency, Harris pledged tax credits for US manufacturers increasing 'good union jobs' such as steel and mining employers, and doubling the number of registered apprenticeships during her first term.[3][4]
  • The vice president also promised to remove degree requirements for federal jobs, instead leaning on skills development while reforming tax laws to encourage employers 'to lift up workers through equity, profits, and benefits.'[5]
  • Harris accused Trump of supporting an economy that 'works for those who own the big skyscrapers' instead of 'those who build them,' while also calling the former president 'one of the biggest losers ever on manufacturing' for reducing US jobs in the sector by nearly 200K.[6][7]
  • According to Ipsos, Trump currently leads Harris in trust to handle America's two top issues respectively — the economy and inflation. As of Sept. 25, RealClearPolitics placed Harris (49.1%) with a two-point advantage over Trump (47.1%) in a national polling average.[8][9]

Sources: [1]BBC News, [2]Newsweek, [3]Reuters, [4]Archive (a), [5]Archive (b), [6]ABC News, [7]FOX News, [8]Ipsos and [9]RealClearPolling.

Narratives

  • Democratic narrative, as provided by The Hill and USA Today. Heavy in policy with a focus on unity instead of division, Harris's Pittsburgh speech was a stark contrast to the often hate-filled ramblings that America has grown so used to within the Trump campaign. Harris' opportunity economy is the only agenda aimed at uplifting America's middle class and finally bringing politics back to the people who truly matter. Her policies will stimulate the economy and empower workers.
  • Republican narrative, as provided by New York Post and Washington Examiner. By suggesting America must move on from its failed policies of the past, Harris showed extreme disregard for the responsibility they hold over America's current economic woes. Having pushed the cost of living through the roof during her time as vice president, Harris is fooling no one by claiming that she's the answer to the struggles of the American middle class, who need an America First solution.

Predictions