The Democratic vice presidential nominee, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, has unveiled plans to improve the lives of rural voters as Vice President Kamala Harris aims to cut into former President Donald Trump’s support. The Harris-Walz plan focuses on rural health care improvements, including recruiting 10,000 new health care professionals in rural and tribal areas through scholarships, loan forgiveness, and grant programs. This plan is part of a broader effort to reach out to rural voters, who have historically leaned towards Trump. Both Democrats and Republicans are targeting these voters in the closing weeks before Election Day, recognizing their potential influence in the outcome.
Walz announced the plan during a visit to rural Lawrence County in western Pennsylvania, a key battleground area. He emphasized his roots in a small town and his connection to rural communities, contrasting his approach with Trump and his running mate, Ohio Sen. JD Vance. A new radio ad featuring Walz will be aired on over 500 rural radio stations in states like Georgia, Michigan, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin, highlighting the campaign’s focus on rural issues and values. The ad emphasizes the importance of community and looking out for neighbors, suggesting that Trump and Vance are more self-serving.
The Harris-Walz plan includes proposals to extend telemedicine coverage under Medicare permanently, grants to support volunteer EMS programs to reduce ambulance response times, and the restoration of the Affordable Connectivity Program initiated by President Joe Biden. This program provided discounts on home internet bills and expired in June. The plan also calls on lawmakers to require equipment manufacturers to allow farmers the right to repair their products, addressing concerns about access to affordable technology in rural areas. These initiatives are designed to improve access to essential services and support rural communities.
The Democratic campaign’s focus on rural voters reflects the recognition of their significance in the upcoming election. Trump’s popularity among rural voters in 2020 has prompted both parties to intensify their efforts to appeal to this demographic, with Democrats like Harris and Walz emphasizing issues like health care, agriculture, and connectivity. By targeting rural voters in key battleground states, the Democratic ticket hopes to sway undecided voters and secure a decisive advantage in a closely contested race. The plan’s emphasis on community values and local empowerment aligns with the campaign’s message of inclusivity and support for all Americans.
As the election approaches, both parties are ramping up their outreach efforts and highlighting policies that resonate with rural voters. The Harris-Walz plan offers a comprehensive strategy to address the specific needs of rural communities, from improving health care access to expanding connectivity and repairing agricultural equipment. By engaging directly with rural voters through radio ads and campaign events, the Democratic ticket demonstrates its commitment to representing all Americans, regardless of their location or background. With the election just weeks away, the battle for rural support is heating up, and both campaigns are vying for the attention and votes of this crucial demographic.
