The US Vice President Kamala Harris recently addressed her economic and immigration policies, defending her record while criticizing former President Donald Trump. This interview marks her first public engagement since being named the Democratic nominee for President.
Harris highlighted the Biden administration’s achievements in restoring the economy post-pandemic and reported a noticeable decrease in illegal border crossings. She lauded the economic policies as effective, referencing lower prescription drug costs and a declining unemployment rate: “That’s good work. There’s more to do.”
Conducted in Savannah, Georgia, the discussion also featured her running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz. Harris firmly rebutted claims that her policy positions have shifted over time, insisting that her core values remain unchanged. “The most significant aspect of my policy perspective and decisions is my values have not changed,” she stated.
Harris Discusses Climate Change and Energy
When questioned about her stance on fracking and climate change, Harris reiterated her commitment to addressing climate issues, emphasizing the Green New Deal as a cornerstone of her values. “I have always believed the climate crisis is real and urgent,” she stated.
She highlighted the Biden administration’s Inflation Reduction Act, which allocates substantial funding toward renewable energy initiatives and electric vehicle incentives, asserting that significant goals have been set for greenhouse gas emissions reductions.
Despite her previous calls to ban fracking, Harris clarified, “As president, I will not ban fracking,” marking a notable shift in her position.
Immigration Policy and Building Consensus
On immigration, Harris discussed her involvement in securing the US border, maintaining that her values have not changed despite previous progressive positions she held during her Senate campaign. Harris had once advocated for closing detention centers but recently supported bipartisan efforts aimed at strengthening border security, promising to sign proposed legislation into law if elected.
She explained her moderate approach by emphasizing the importance of consensus, stating, “It is vital to find common ground to address problem-solving effectively.” Harris also committed to incorporating diverse opinions into her presidential cabinet, stating her determination to govern as a leader “for all Americans.”
In relation to the ongoing war in Gaza, Harris reiterated the administration’s stance advocating for a peaceful resolution and the establishment of a Palestinian state, stressing, “This war must end, and we must get a deal that is about getting the hostages out.”
Debate Preparation and Election Strategy
As criticism mounts from Republicans about her lack of press engagement, Harris’s interview comes as a strategic move to bolster her visibility. This marks her first significant media appearance since Biden withdrew from the presidential race. She had promised an interview prior to the end of August.
The Harris-Walz campaign shifts focus to Georgia, aiming to connect with younger voters in critical battleground states, following polling that indicates a tightening presidential race. Harris is scheduled to hold a rally in Savannah at a historic black college, coinciding with outreach efforts to engage young Americans ahead of the November elections.
The upcoming debate between Trump and Harris is set to air on September 10, as both candidates navigate their positions ahead of the pivotal election.
