We have all seen political advertisements on YouTube, google, and social media, with each candidate pointing out a “flaw” in their opponent or their plans. From climate change to their economic policies, Harris and Trump have very different visions for what the next four years would look like in the United States under their presidency.
Climate Change: Climate change policies endorsed by Donald Trump and Kamala Harris differ greatly in approach. Harris views climate change as a severe threat and advocates for the Paris Climate Pact, focusing on preventing rises in global temperature and carbon emissions through international cooperation. Additionally, Harris supports the Inflation Reduction Acts, which provides tax credits for electric vehicles and incentives for companies to switch to clean energy technologies.
In contrast, Trump has dismissed concerns about global warming, referring to it as a “hoax.” Trump opposes the Paris Climate Pact and believes that any mandates that favor electric vehicles could harm the U.S. economy. Trump prioritizes coal, oil, and natural gas industries and aims to remove federal regulations hindering their expansion.
Abortion and Female Reproductive Rights: In both 2024 presidential debates, abortion and female reproductive rights remain contentious topics. The 2022 Supreme Court decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, which had previously protected a woman’s rights to abortion up to around 23 weeks, intensified discussions. Former president Donald Trump’s stance on abortion is unclear, despite having demonstrated opposition to abortions and having played a part in the Roe v. Wade decision. He has stated that the decision to legalize abortions should be left to individual states, allowing each to define its own stance on the issue. However, his own stance has shown inconsistency. During an interview, Trump was asked, “Do you believe in punishment for abortion, yes or no, as a principle?’” Trump responded, “For the woman? …there has to be some form.”
Conversely, Kamala is in favor of reinstating protections provided the previous overturning of Roe v. Wade. During the September presidential debate, Harris said, “I pledge to you when Congress passes a bill to put back in place the protections of Roe v. Wade, as president of the United States, I will proudly sign it into law.” Harris has also pledged to safeguard access to contraception and other fertility treatments, including IVF.
The Economy: Taxes, tariffs, and inflation have consistently been key concerns for voters in the 2024 presidential election, with economic policies of both Kamala Harris and Donald Trump significantly influencing voter turnout. For Harris, her policies aim at easing financial pressures, including tax credits for first-time homebuyers and efforts to prevent companies from illegal price gouging, which can drive up inflation. She has voiced opposition to tariffs, asserting that they raise the cost of goods purchased by American consumers. While Harris’s plans are broad, her approach builds upon Biden administration policies.
Trump’s economic plans, on the other hand, include the use of federal lands for increasing housing availability and using the Federal Reserve to lower interest rates. Additionally, he plans to establish tariffs on Chinese imports, as well as lesser tariffs on other imported goods.
Russia and Ukraine: Ongoing Russo-Ukrainian conflicts remain momentous for voters may in the upcoming 2024 presidential election. Harris has expressed unwavering support of Ukraine, warning that Russian victory may embolden Russia to challenge NATO member countries, potentially warranting a military response under NATO’s collective defense obligations. Harris plans to follow the Biden administration’s approach in continuing the United States’ support of Ukraine.
Donald Trump advocates for a different strategy. He suggests that financial support be given to Ukraine in the form of loans rather than grants. Although Trump has not clearly stated his position on either side of the conflict, he has explained that he would “tell Zelenskyy, no more. You got to make a deal. I would tell Putin, if you don’t make a deal, we’re going to give him a lot. We’re going to [give Ukraine] more than they ever got if we have to. I will have the deal done in one day.”
Middle East Crisis: The Middle East Crisis remains a deciding factor for voters, with any decision regarding the regional crisis resting in the hands of the next President. Kamala Harris has commented on the ongoing conflict, affirming Israel’s right to self-defense, whilst also expressing concern over Palestinian civilian casualties resulting from Israeli military actions. Harris has advocated for a two-state solution, stating, “We must have a two-state solution where we can rebuild Gaza, where the Palestinians have security, self-determination and the dignity they so rightly deserve.” She has been critical of Israel’s humanitarian practices in Gaza and called for a cease-fire in March.
Conversely, Trump is more supportive of Israel, although he criticizes their strategies and leadership under Netanyahu. Trump says, “Israel has to do a better job of public relations, frankly, because the other side is beating them at the public relations front.” He also comments on the conflict, saying Israel should “get it over with.”
Border Security and Immigration Reform: Immigration and border security remain significant issues in the 2024 election, with each candidate’s stance likely to influence voter turnout. Donald Trump has reiterated his belief in the necessity of a border wall to curb illegal immigration through border crossings. He has also proposed offering green cards to college graduates, stating, “If you graduate from a college, I think you should get, automatically as part of your diploma, a green card to be able to stay in this country.”
On the other hand, Kamala Harris supported the bipartisan bill directed at expediting immigrant deportation and increasing requirements to seek asylum. A central aspect of her campaign includes a commitment to increase border resources, and she has pledged to sign these policies into law if elected.
In the upcoming 2024 presidential election, a thorough analysis of both candidates’ contentions and policies is essential. The choices made in this election will shape and direct the United States for the next four years.