Kamala Harris, Democratic presidential candidate and current U.S. Vice President, will focus her economic strategy on reducing the costs of essential goods like groceries, housing, and healthcare, as well as expanding the child tax credit, according to her advisers. This agenda is designed to draw a clear distinction from former President Donald Trump’s policies on tariffs and taxes.
In a speech scheduled for Friday in North Carolina, Harris is expected to outline her plans for curbing high prices, which remain a significant issue for voters despite a recent drop in inflation. The speech will also address corporate practices in pricing, particularly in the meat processing industry, proposing stricter federal oversight and penalties for price manipulation.
Harris’s economic vision closely aligns with President Joe Biden’s, aiming to resonate with middle-class voters, particularly in key battleground states as the November election approaches. While she maintains much of Biden’s approach, her campaign will emphasize specific issues that are central to her platform, such as the child tax credit, which she has championed as a critical support for working families.
The proposal includes allowing the Federal Trade Commission to investigate and penalize abusive pricing practices in the food industry, alongside increasing scrutiny on mergers that could harm consumers. Harris also plans to address other significant issues such as prescription drug costs and housing affordability.
While Harris’s campaign is focusing on broad themes, she is also prepared to contrast her approach with Trump’s, particularly on tax policy. Harris will uphold Biden’s commitment not to increase taxes on individuals earning $400,000 or less, in contrast to Trump’s tax cuts for corporations and his proposal for new tariffs on imports—policies that Harris opposes.
As the election nears, Harris is strategically avoiding divisive details in some areas, such as energy policy, to prevent alienating voters and attracting opposition from business groups. Her economic agenda is expected to be broad, emphasizing unity and shared values, even as she navigates the complex landscape of voter concerns and legislative challenges.
