In a significant political move just days before the election, The Economist has officially endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris over former President Donald Trump, marking a critical moment in the race for the presidency.
The endorsement, published on Thursday, states:
“While some newspapers refused to back a presidential candidate this year, today The Economist is endorsing Kamala Harris.”
This endorsement carries considerable weight, as The Economist is known for its rigorous analysis and influence among educated voters and political decision-makers.
The editors highlighted the potential risks of a Trump presidency, stating:
“Tens of millions of Americans will vote for Mr. Trump next week. Some will be true believers. But many will take a calculated risk that in office his worst instincts would be constrained.” They warned that electing Trump would mean “gambling with the economy, the rule of law, and international peace.”
The endorsement comes at a crucial time when many major publications, including USA Today and The Washington Post, have chosen not to endorse a candidate.
The latter reportedly lost over 200,000 digital subscribers due to its decision, which underscores the polarizing nature of this election cycle. In stark contrast, The Economist positioned Harris as a viable and responsible choice, asserting, “Harris’s shortcomings are ordinary, and none of them are disqualifying.” The endorsement concluded, “If The Economist had a vote, we would cast it for her.”
What The Economist’s Endorsement Means
Harris’s support from The Economist adds to her momentum. She has also received endorsements from notable outlets such as the New York Times, Boston Globe, Seattle Times, Las Vegas Sun, The New Yorker, and the Philadelphia Inquirer, while Trump has been backed by the New York Post.
This accumulation of endorsements may significantly influence undecided voters, particularly in battleground states.
Earlier this year, The Economist was among those urging President Biden to step aside after his challenging debate performance against Trump.
They articulated concerns that Biden’s continued candidacy could undermine the Democratic mission to “help ordinary Americans and save democracy.”
With the race tightening ahead of Election Day, recent polling from The Hill/Decision Desk HQ shows the Democratic and Republican nominees virtually tied, with Harris leading at 47.9% compared to Trump’s 47.8%.
The endorsement from The Economist could galvanize support for Harris among voters seeking a candidate who aligns with their values and concerns for the future of the country.
The impact of such endorsements could play a pivotal role in swaying public opinion and voter turnout.
