As Vice President Kamala Harris campaigns to become the 47th President of the United States, her policies and rhetoric remain in the spotlight. While Harris’ potential election would mark a significant moment in American history as the first Black and South Asian woman president, there are pressing questions about the extent to which her presidency would lead to substantial changes in addressing social and economic disparities, reproductive rights, and violence in the U.S.
Centre-Right Policies: Echoes of the Past
Throughout her political career and especially during her tenure as Vice President under President Joe Biden, Harris has signaled a continuation of moderate, centre-right policies. This approach raises concerns among progressive circles that her administration may not prioritize transformative changes, particularly for marginalized groups. President Biden’s administration, while advancing some social policies, has often walked a centrist line—balancing progressive aspirations with bipartisan feasibility.
Harris’ campaign promises reflect this trend. For instance, her proposed $25,000 grant aimed at assisting first-time home buyers is notable. However, it fails to account for systemic disparities within the housing market, which historically favors white Americans over communities of color. A recent study by the National Association of Realtors found that the homeownership rate among Black Americans remained approximately 44% in 2023, compared to 73% for white Americans, showcasing the challenge Harris’ policies might face in bridging this divide.
Reproductive Rights: Codification of Roe v. Wade
Harris has pledged to codify Roe v. Wade, a promise echoed by Democratic leaders since the landmark 1973 decision. However, even if Congress passes such legislation, the current Supreme Court composition, influenced by conservative appointments during Trump’s presidency, presents significant hurdles. Moreover, many states have enacted restrictive abortion laws, and the codification would likely reset the legal landscape only to where it was pre-2022.
Recent data from the Guttmacher Institute indicates that 13 states have completely banned abortion, while others have severe restrictions. Harris’ commitment, while rhetorically strong, needs a more comprehensive plan to address these regional discrepancies and ensure that marginalized women, particularly those facing poverty or racial discrimination, can access reproductive health services.
Violence and Gun Control: Contradictory Messaging?
Harris has positioned herself as an advocate for “common sense” gun control measures, including universal background checks and assault weapon bans. Yet, comments made during public appearances have stirred controversy. In a 2023 interview with Oprah Winfrey, Harris admitted to owning a gun and made a remark about using lethal force in self-defense, a statement that seemed at odds with her gun control stance.
The juxtaposition of advocating for stricter regulations while speaking casually about firearm use reflects a broader challenge in appealing to diverse voter bases, particularly moderate or right-leaning individuals. This balancing act may resonate with some voters but risks alienating those who seek unequivocal commitment to gun reform.
The Influence of Celebrity Endorsements: A Tale of Two Campaigns
In the run-up to the 2024 election, the involvement of celebrities in U.S. politics has become a significant cultural element. While Harris has garnered support from progressive celebrities in Hollywood and the music industry, her opponent, Donald Trump, has attracted an eclectic and sometimes surprising list of endorsements.
50 Cent’s recent revelation on ‘The Breakfast Club’ podcast about being offered $3 million to perform at Trump’s rally—and turning it down—illustrates Trump’s attempts to leverage pop culture to his advantage. Similarly, figures like Elon Musk, who has promoted Trump via his platform X (formerly Twitter), align their support with strategic business interests, particularly concerning space policy and technology funding.
Meanwhile, Trump’s alignment with Puerto Rican musicians such as Anuel AA and Justin Quiles demonstrates a targeted appeal to Latino voters—a demographic that played a pivotal role in previous elections. Their endorsements underscore Trump’s efforts to maintain a foothold among diverse voter groups, even as backlash, like Nicky Jam’s withdrawal of support following offensive comments at a rally, complicates this strategy.
Controversies and Pop Culture Connections
In a blend of politics and pop culture, Trump’s affinity for the WWE universe has re-emerged, with figures like Hulk Hogan endorsing him. This connection to the wrestling world, an arena known for dramatic showmanship, seems a fitting reflection of Trump’s campaign style.
On the other hand, Kamala Harris’ campaign has benefited from the backing of influential celebrities committed to progressive causes. Yet, this support comes with its challenges; Kim Kardashian’s neutral or ambiguous interactions, such as posting selfies with Ivanka Trump, illustrate the complex web of celebrity influence, where associations can sway public perceptions subtly.
A Future Presidency: What It Could Mean
If Harris wins the election, her administration will likely attempt to bridge the gap between bipartisan cooperation and progressive change. However, critics argue that without concrete, detailed plans addressing systemic issues—from housing inequality to reproductive rights—her policies may fall short of the transformative impact many hope for.
In a polarized political landscape, balancing promises with action will be essential. The potential of Harris’ presidency to enact meaningful change will depend on her administration’s ability to push beyond the rhetoric and establish legislative frameworks that challenge the status quo, benefiting all Americans, especially the historically marginalized.
References
- National Association of Realtors. (2023). Homeownership Rates by Race and Ethnicity.
- Guttmacher Institute. (2024). Abortion Policies by State.
- The Breakfast Club Podcast. (2024). Interview with 50 Cent.
- Major News Outlets (Google Search Data – November 2024).
- Analysis of recent political endorsements and celebrity statements.
