Kamala Harris, the Democratic presidential candidate, is swiftly crafting her policy platform as she prepares for the November 5, 2024 election. The vice president, who became the first female, Black, and South Asian American to hold the office in 2021, is navigating a delicate balance between her own views and the legacy of President Biden's administration.
In a surprising move, Harris has adopted a proposal from her rival, former President Donald Trump, to end federal taxation on tipped earnings for lower- and middle-income workers. This decision highlights the complex political landscape she faces, as she attempts to appeal to a broad spectrum of voters while differentiating herself from her predecessor.
"While Donald Trump is wedded to the extreme ideas in his Project 2025 agenda, Vice President Harris believes real leadership means bringing all sides together to build consensus."
The tipped minimum wage in the US has remained at $2.13 per hour since 1991, making this issue particularly relevant to service industry workers. Harris's focus on this policy could resonate strongly in key swing states like Nevada, known for its large service sector.
Harris is also distancing herself from some of the more liberal stances she took during her unsuccessful 2020 presidential bid. She has moved away from proposals such as banning fracking, establishing a single-payer healthcare system, and decriminalizing illegal border crossings. This shift reflects a more centrist approach as she aims to build a broader coalition of support.
The vice president's policy platform is still taking shape, with promises to focus on economic issues and strengthening the middle class. However, she faces challenges in detailing specific plans and explaining how she would gain congressional support for contentious issues like abortion access and assault weapon bans.
Harris's campaign is emphasizing her role in the Biden administration's bipartisan achievements, such as the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act passed in 2021. This approach aligns with her stated goal of bringing "all sides together to build consensus."
As the 60th quadrennial presidential election approaches, Harris must navigate the complexities of being both a continuation of the Biden presidency and a candidate with her own vision. Her ability to balance these roles while addressing pressing national issues will likely be a defining factor in her campaign.
Donald Trump, meanwhile, has criticized Harris for adopting his ideas and accused her of flip-flopping on policies. The former president's Project 2025, a conservative policy blueprint, stands in stark contrast to Harris's more moderate approach.
As the election draws nearer, voters will be closely watching how Harris develops and articulates her policy positions. Her success may hinge on her ability to present a clear, compelling vision for the future while addressing the challenges that have faced the current administration.