Vice President Kamala Harris is set to announce a series of new economic policies this week aimed at helping Americans build wealth, according to multiple sources familiar with the plans.
The proposals, which are expected to be unveiled during a visit to Pittsburgh on Wednesday, are intended to offer pathways for wealth creation and incentivize businesses to support this effort.
This move comes as undecided voters, particularly in swing states, continue to seek more information about Harris’ economic platform ahead of the November presidential election.
Harris’ economic proposals could play a critical role in swaying voters, especially given the tight race.
Focus on Wealth Building and Economic Equity
While specific details of the new policies remain under wraps, sources close to the Harris campaign suggest the proposals will focus on more than just affordability.
“It’s about showing voters they have a path to building wealth,” one insider told Reuters. Harris aims to present a clear strategy for how Americans can gain economic stability and “get a foot in the door.”
Throughout her political career, Harris has championed policies that promote economic equity. During her 2020 presidential campaign, she advocated for significant pay increases for public school teachers and demanded corporate transparency regarding the pay gap between men and women.
Under the Biden-Harris administration, efforts have been made to address biases in home appraisals and support minority-owned businesses through federal contracts.
The new proposals are expected to build on these initiatives, with a particular focus on issues such as housing affordability, tax relief for small businesses, and expanding the child tax credit.
Election Strategy Amid Economic Debate
Releasing fresh economic policies less than two months before Election Day is a bold move, particularly as Harris continues to climb in the polls on economic issues.
A recent Financial Times-Michigan Ross poll showed 44% of registered voters trusted Harris’ economic management, narrowly edging out former President Donald Trump, who garnered 42%.
However, some advisers are concerned that introducing new policies this late in the campaign might not resonate with voters.
“Typically, campaigns shift to mobilizing voters by September,” said one source. “But this isn’t a typical campaign. Harris has to keep persuading and mobilizing voters until the very end.”
Harris’ supporters, such as Democratic strategist Donna Brazile, argue that the focus should now be on practical demonstrations of her economic message.
“Rather than releasing more white papers, Harris should be going to grocery stores and apartment buildings to show people how her policies will impact them directly,” said Brazile.
Republican Pushback
Meanwhile, Trump and the Republican Party are targeting working-class voters with their own economic proposals, which include eliminating taxes on tips and Social Security benefits.
Trump has also promised new tariffs on foreign goods, which some economists warn could increase costs for consumers.
Trump has consistently attacked the Biden-Harris administration on inflation, particularly the rising cost of groceries. While inflation has cooled, as evidenced by the Federal Reserve’s recent interest rate cuts, the cost of living remains a significant concern for voters.
Looking Ahead
Harris’ upcoming economic proposals are part of a broader strategy to reshape the U.S. economy with an emphasis on wealth creation and equality.
However, many of her plans would require congressional approval, and their fate will largely depend on the outcome of the 2024 election and whether Democrats can gain control of both the House and Senate.
