Kamala Harris steps into the 2024 presidential race as the Democratic Party’s nominee, succeeding Joe Biden and choosing Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate. Voters are keenly interested in understanding her policy platform as they consider who to support in the upcoming election. To provide clarity and insight into a potential Harris-Walz administration, she released a comprehensive policy guide in early September, outlining her vision for the nation.
This guide prioritizes her economic and foreign policy agendas, with a strong emphasis on tackling the rising cost of living that impacts many Americans. For those wondering “Why Vote Kamala,” examining her positions on critical issues provides a clear picture of her priorities and potential direction for the country. Here’s a breakdown of Kamala Harris’s stance on ten key policy areas.
Economic Policies: Why Vote Kamala for Economic Growth?
As Vice-President, Kamala Harris played a significant role in the Biden administration’s economic initiatives, often referred to as “Bidenomics.” This included substantial investments in infrastructure and the burgeoning green energy sector. These policies aimed to stimulate economic growth and job creation. While the economy has seen positive growth and job numbers, persistent inflation and high interest rates continue to strain household budgets across America. This economic climate is a central concern for voters as they consider “why vote Kamala.”
In her Democratic convention acceptance speech, Harris directly addressed these concerns. She proposed measures to alleviate financial pressures on families, including mortgage assistance programs for first-time homebuyers, a tax credit specifically for parents of newborn children, and strict bans on price gouging by grocery stores to combat inflation. These proposals are designed to directly address the financial anxieties of middle-class families and those aspiring to homeownership.
Harris has articulated a vision for what she calls “an opportunity economy,” emphasizing a system where everyone has a fair chance to compete and achieve success. In her first interview as the Democratic nominee with CNN, she reiterated that supporting and strengthening the middle class is a paramount priority. This theme of middle-class empowerment has been a consistent message throughout her campaign, resonating with voters concerned about economic fairness and opportunity. Voting for Kamala Harris could be seen as a vote for these targeted economic relief measures and a focus on middle-class prosperity.
Tax Policy: Understanding Kamala Harris’s Tax Plans
Kamala Harris’s approach to taxation reflects a progressive philosophy. During her time as a senator in 2017, she demonstrated her support for progressive tax reforms by co-sponsoring a bill with Bernie Sanders aimed at expanding social security benefits for senior citizens. This bill proposed increasing the tax rate on investment income, signaling a move towards higher taxes on wealthier individuals and corporations to fund social programs.
As a presidential candidate in 2019, Harris advocated for raising the corporate tax rate to 35%, a significant increase from the 21% rate at the time. This position was even more assertive than Joe Biden’s proposal, which she also supported, to raise the rate to 28%. This historical stance provides context for understanding her current tax proposals.
In her acceptance speech as the Democratic nominee, she announced a plan to “pass a middle-class tax cut that will benefit more than 100 million Americans.” This statement refers to the reinstatement of key tax credits, specifically the Child Tax Credit and the Earned Income Tax Credit. Restoring the expanded Child Tax Credit would provide substantial financial relief to families with newborn children, offering an estimated $6,000 tax cut.
Furthermore, a campaign official confirmed to the BBC that Vice-President Harris remains committed to President Biden’s pledge not to raise taxes on Americans earning less than $400,000 annually. This commitment aims to protect middle- and lower-income households from increased tax burdens while potentially increasing taxes for higher earners and corporations. For voters considering “why vote Kamala,” her tax policies suggest a focus on middle-class tax relief and progressive taxation principles.
Abortion Rights: Kamala Harris and Reproductive Freedom
Abortion rights are a central pillar of Kamala Harris’s political platform. She has consistently and unequivocally voiced her support for a woman’s right to choose. Her actions and public statements underscore the importance she places on reproductive freedom.
Notably, she became the first Vice-President in US history to visit an abortion clinic, a symbolic gesture highlighting her commitment to abortion access. Following the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v Wade in 2022, Harris actively toured the country to address the wave of state-level abortion bans that followed. She frequently frames the issue of abortion rights as a fundamental matter of personal freedom and bodily autonomy.
Making abortion rights a cornerstone of her campaign, Harris continues to champion legislation that would enshrine reproductive rights protections at the national level. At a campaign rally in Atlanta, Georgia, she declared, “When Congress passes a law to restore reproductive freedoms, as president of the United States, I will sign it into law.” This pledge clearly signals her intention to prioritize federal action to protect abortion rights if elected president.
She reiterated this commitment during the ABC News debate with Donald Trump, further solidifying her stance on this highly divisive issue. For voters prioritizing the protection of abortion rights, “why vote Kamala” becomes evident in her unwavering advocacy and commitment to legislative action.
Immigration Policy: Evolving Stance on Border Security
Kamala Harris’s position on immigration and border security has shown a notable evolution over time, reflecting the complexities and political dynamics of this issue. While her earlier positions leaned towards more lenient approaches, her stance has become more moderate, particularly regarding border enforcement.
On the campaign trail, she has consistently expressed her support for the bipartisan border security bill that was previously debated in Congress. This bill, despite ultimately failing to pass due to Republican opposition, proposed significant funding for border security measures, including hundreds of millions of dollars for border wall construction. This indicates a willingness to invest in physical barriers as part of a broader border security strategy.
The bipartisan bill also included provisions for fast-tracking asylum case decisions, limiting humanitarian parole, and expanding the authority to deport migrants. These measures suggest a move towards a more stringent approach to border management. Vice-President Harris has stated her intention to revive this bill and sign it into law if elected, signaling a commitment to these border security measures.
She has also publicly stated that there “should be consequences” for individuals who cross the US border unlawfully, a notable shift from her previously more lenient stance. This tougher rhetoric aligns with her support for the border security bill and reflects a more enforcement-focused approach to immigration.
During her vice-presidency, Harris was tasked with addressing the root causes of migration from Central America, as record numbers of migrants crossed the southern border during the Biden administration. In response, she spearheaded efforts to raise $3 billion, primarily from private sector companies, to fund regional investments aimed at improving conditions in Central American countries and encouraging residents to remain in their home countries. For voters concerned about border security and seeking a candidate with a comprehensive approach, considering “why vote Kamala” involves understanding her evolving and multifaceted immigration policies.
NATO and Ukraine Aid: Foreign Policy and Global Alliances
Kamala Harris’s early career focused primarily on domestic issues and matters specific to California. However, since her election to the US Senate and particularly during her vice-presidency, she has become increasingly involved in foreign policy and international relations.
As Vice-President, she has engaged extensively on the global stage, meeting with over 150 world leaders and traveling to 21 countries. This extensive diplomatic experience has broadened her foreign policy expertise and provided her with firsthand exposure to international challenges.
She attended the Munich Security Conference in February 2024, a significant forum for international security discussions. At the conference, she delivered a strong message of support for NATO, the Western security alliance, and unequivocally condemned Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Her presence and statements at Munich underscored her commitment to transatlantic alliances and collective security.
Harris has consistently vowed to support Ukraine “for as long as it takes” in its defense against Russian aggression. She represented the United States at Kyiv’s “peace conference” in Switzerland in June 2024, further demonstrating her administration’s commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
In her Democratic convention speech, she highlighted her engagement with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, stating that she warned him about the impending Russian invasion five days before it occurred. She also emphasized her role in helping to “mobilize a global response” after the war began, suggesting a proactive and leadership-oriented approach to international crises.
Looking ahead, Vice-President Harris has pledged to reject isolationism and ensure that “America – not China – wins the competition for the 21st Century.” This statement points towards a foreign policy that emphasizes American leadership, global engagement, and strategic competition, particularly with China. For voters considering “why vote Kamala” based on foreign policy, her record and statements suggest a commitment to strong alliances, support for Ukraine, and assertive American leadership on the world stage.
Israel-Gaza War: Navigating a Complex Conflict
The Israel-Gaza conflict presents a complex and deeply sensitive foreign policy challenge. Kamala Harris has articulated her position on this issue, emphasizing a long-term vision while addressing the immediate crisis.
She has been a long-standing advocate for a two-state solution, which remains the widely accepted framework for a lasting peace in the region. Simultaneously, she has called for an end to the ongoing war in Gaza, recognizing the urgent need to de-escalate the conflict and address the humanitarian crisis.
In her convention acceptance speech, she pledged that as president, she would work to ensure several key outcomes: “that Israel is secure, the hostages are released, the suffering in Gaza ends, and the Palestinian people can realize their right to dignity, security, freedom, and self-determination.” This statement encapsulates a balanced approach, acknowledging the security concerns of Israel while also addressing the humanitarian needs and political aspirations of the Palestinian people.
As Vice-President, Harris was among the first in the Biden administration to publicly call for an “immediate ceasefire” in Gaza. She also raised concerns about the “humanitarian catastrophe for Palestinians” and urged Israel to take steps to end the conflict. These statements reflect a growing concern within the administration regarding the humanitarian situation in Gaza.
She raised these issues in what were described as “frank and constructive” talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during his visit to Washington in July. This direct engagement indicates a willingness to address difficult issues directly with Israeli leadership.
Despite calls from some on the US left for an arms embargo on Israel, Harris has not supported this measure. At the party convention, she affirmed that she would “always stand up for Israel’s right to defend itself.” She reiterated this support during the debate with Trump, stating, “I have my entire career and life supported Israel and the Israeli people.”
In her CNN interview, Harris indicated that her focus would be on securing a ceasefire deal, aligning with President Biden’s approach. For voters considering “why vote Kamala” regarding the Israel-Gaza conflict, her positions suggest a commitment to a two-state solution, a desire to end the current conflict, concern for Palestinian humanitarian needs, and continued support for Israel’s security.
Healthcare Policy: Expanding Access and Affordability
Healthcare is a consistently high-priority issue for American voters. Kamala Harris has a track record of supporting initiatives to expand healthcare access and affordability, although her specific proposals have evolved over time.
Early in her career, she voiced support for expanding publicly funded healthcare programs, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, youth with disabilities, and low-income individuals. This included initial support for “Medicare-for-All,” a progressive policy proposal that would transition the US to a single-payer, publicly funded healthcare system. However, she later moderated her stance on this issue.
Her campaign has indicated that she would not advocate for a single-payer system if elected president. This suggests a more pragmatic approach, focusing on building upon the existing Affordable Care Act and other incremental reforms.
During her vice-presidency, the Biden-Harris administration has achieved some notable healthcare policy successes. These include measures to reduce prescription drug costs, cap insulin prices at $35 per month for Medicare beneficiaries, empower Medicare to negotiate drug prices, and cap out-of-pocket expenses for Medicare drug coverage. These accomplishments demonstrate a focus on lowering healthcare costs for seniors and those on Medicare.
On the campaign trail, Harris has stated her goal to erase billions of dollars in medical debt for Americans and has indicated she would collaborate with states on this issue. Details of this plan remain limited, but during her tenure as California Attorney General, she frequently utilized anti-trust laws to pressure insurers, hospitals, and drug companies to address rising healthcare costs. For voters considering “why vote Kamala” on healthcare, her record suggests a focus on expanding access, lowering drug costs, and addressing medical debt, while potentially stopping short of advocating for a single-payer system.
Crime and Criminal Justice: A Prosecutor’s Perspective
Kamala Harris’s career began in law enforcement, giving her a unique perspective on crime and criminal justice issues. She started as a prosecutor specializing in cases of child abuse and sex trafficking before becoming the District Attorney of San Francisco and later serving as California’s Attorney General.
Her record as a prosecutor has drawn both praise and criticism. Progressives on the left have criticized her for high conviction rates, particularly for violent crimes, sometimes labeling her as overly punitive. Conversely, those on the right have occasionally accused her of being soft on crime, highlighting the complexities of her record.
Harris has leveraged her prosecutorial background to draw a sharp contrast with her political opponent, referencing Donald Trump’s conviction on 34 felony charges related to a hush-money scheme and the finding that he was liable for sexual abuse. She directly mentioned Trump’s conviction in her Democratic party conference acceptance speech, framing herself as a candidate with a strong commitment to law and order and ethical conduct in public office. For voters prioritizing law and order and considering “why vote Kamala” on crime, her background as a prosecutor and her emphasis on accountability may be key factors.
Gun Laws and Safety: Advocating for Stricter Regulations
Gun control and gun safety are consistently debated topics in American politics. Kamala Harris has a long history of supporting gun safety regulations throughout her political career.
During her tenure as California’s Attorney General, she actively defended the state’s gun laws against legal challenges, demonstrating her commitment to existing gun control measures.
As Vice-President, she has taken a leading role in the White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention. Earlier this year, she announced new resources to support the implementation of red-flag laws, which are designed to temporarily remove firearms from individuals deemed a danger to themselves or others. This initiative reflects a focus on preventing gun violence through targeted interventions.
She has also encouraged states to utilize $750 million in federal funds made available by the Biden-Harris administration for crisis intervention programs, further supporting state-level efforts to address gun violence.
Her policy platform includes key gun control proposals such as a ban on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines, as well as a requirement for universal background checks for all gun purchases. These are long-standing Democratic priorities aimed at reducing gun violence.
During a debate, she pointed out that both she and her vice-presidential nominee, Tim Walz, are gun owners, attempting to bridge the gap between gun control advocacy and respect for gun ownership rights. For voters prioritizing stricter gun laws and gun safety measures, considering “why vote Kamala” highlights her consistent support for regulations and her administration’s actions to address gun violence.
Climate Change and Energy Policy: Balancing Green Initiatives and Energy Needs
Climate change and energy policy are critical areas of focus for voters concerned about the environment and the future of energy production. Kamala Harris has addressed these issues with a nuanced approach, balancing ambitious climate goals with pragmatic considerations of energy needs.
Early in her career as a prosecutor, she defended California’s climate laws and took legal action against oil companies for environmental damage, demonstrating a commitment to environmental protection. She also initially supported aspects of the “Green New Deal” during her 2020 presidential campaign, a comprehensive set of proposals for addressing climate change and transitioning to a green economy.
In a CNN town hall in 2019, she stated, “there is no question I’m in favor of banning fracking,” reflecting concerns about the environmental impacts of this natural gas and oil extraction technique. However, her position has since evolved, reflecting the political and economic realities of energy policy.
During a presidential debate, she highlighted her tie-breaking vote to pass the Inflation Reduction Act, a landmark piece of legislation that, while investing heavily in renewable energy and electric vehicle incentives, also opened up new leases for fracking companies. This indicates a shift towards a more “all-of-the-above” energy strategy.
“My position is that we have got to invest in diverse sources of energy so we reduce our reliance on foreign oil,” she stated, emphasizing energy independence and a diversified energy portfolio.
According to her policy document, Harris pledges to protect public lands and public health, lower household energy costs, and hold polluters accountable to secure clean air and water if elected in November. For voters considering “why vote Kamala” on climate and energy, her platform suggests a commitment to climate action, investment in renewable energy, and environmental protection, while also acknowledging the need for diverse energy sources and addressing energy costs.
Kamala Harris
Democratic Party
US election 2024
Donald Trump
Tim Walz
United States
Joe Biden
