Vice President Kamala Harris is preparing to announce her economic portfolio in Raleigh, North Carolina, with a plan to address inflation and lower costs for middle-class families. This marks the first major policy initiative from Harris since President Biden withdrew from the race. A CBS News poll shows that only 9% of registered voters consider the national economy to be in ‘very good’ condition, with inflation being a top concern consistently across polls in 2024. Prices remain 20% higher than pre-pandemic levels, putting financial strain on many Americans.
Harris recently pledged to eliminate taxes on tips and raise the minimum wage during a rally in Las Vegas, making these her only two economic policy proposals thus far. Her campaign officials have shared details of her focus on lowering costs for Americans, taking on corporate price gouging, and targeting inflation as a priority starting on ‘Day One’ of her term. Harris plans to address issues such as raising rents, capping the cost of prescription drugs, and fighting against illegal price gouging by corporations. She emphasizes her commitment to serving the middle class and working families as she campaigns across battleground states.
Lawmakers are expected to address tax legislation in 2025, with Harris proposing to eliminate taxes on tips for service workers, a similar idea that former President Donald Trump had pitched back in June. Control of Congress will be crucial for any tax changes given the expiration of Trump’s 2017 tax cuts. Voters consistently view the economy as a top issue when heading to the voting booths, with a focus on workforce development, job opportunities, and advancement in career fields. Harris continues to campaign on economic issues, emphasizing her dedication to putting the middle class and working families first.
A CBS News poll shows that Harris trails Trump on the issue of improving people’s finances, with 45% of registered voters believing they would be better off financially with the former president compared to 25% for Harris. Harris has been focused on addressing voters’ concerns on the economy through her Economic Opportunity tour in 2024, promoting the achievements of the Biden-Harris administration while campaigning as Mr. Biden’s running mate. She has highlighted her commitment to making a positive impact on the economy by lowering costs, addressing inflation, and standing up to corporations that engage in unfair practices. Harris’s economic policies and proposals will be key factors in her campaign as she strives to connect with voters and address their concerns about financial stability and growth.
