Harris emphasized the importance of highlighting the need to improve the economy of American households, and she specifically pointed out living costs, healthcare costs, and tax relief for families with children – and lower food prices.
When the middle class is strong, then the USA is strong, she said in her first speech as a presidential candidate.
Important State
The televised speech was held in the swing state of North Carolina, one of the few states that may decide the presidential election between Harris and the Republican Donald Trump.
Harris began by talking about the high prices of food and how it affects those who have to budget when paying at the checkout.
We will help the food industry become more competitive, she said in Raleigh to enthusiastic supporters.
Harris threatened to punish companies in the food industry that implement unjustified price increases.
Inflation Strikes
The private economic concerns that have followed in the wake of inflation can decide the election in the USA. Increased living costs have contributed to the sitting President Joe Biden's faltering popularity ratings, although inflation has decreased significantly in recent months and unemployment has been below four percent for the past two years.
In an attempt to regain the initiative on the issue from rival Donald Trump – who has had higher confidence among voters when it comes to the economy – Harris focused on the issues that Trump has attracted voters with: wallet politics.
She proposed subsidies for first-time homebuyers and incentives for building affordable housing. She presented tax relief for parents, cheaper prescription drugs, and lower healthcare insurance costs through the Affordable Care Act.
But she also launched a harsh attack on opponent Trump, and repeated her recurring phrase that she is a prosecutor, and that she knows how to take care of crooks.
Laughter and Applause
Harris' style of delivery differed significantly from President Joe Biden's recent appearances. The suit and tie were gone, and in a light blue shirt and gray-blue jacket, she drew both applause, laughter, and boos – especially when she mentioned opponent Trump's name.
Now it's time to explore a new path forward, she said.
Overall, Harris' proposals suggest more of a "restart" of Biden's economic policy than a "radical new start", wrote The New York Times in an analysis.
