Mon | Sep 9, 2024

Why Kamala Harris should be the US president

Published:Saturday | August 3, 2024 | 12:06 AM

THE EDITOR, Madam:

I am writing with reference to Kendall Karan’s letter published on July 29, titled ‘Why Kamala Harris should not be the US president’, to defend Kamala Harris’ nomination as POTUS based solely on policies and ideas that benefit the US and the world.

The idea that the policies or world view of a leader or any person are separate from their identity is ludicrous. If Karan is reasonable, this statement alone would explain why Trump supports Project 2025, should he be elected as POTUS. One can even use oneself to test this thesis.

That being said, in addition to her multiple and intersecting identities of race, gender, Asian-American, prosecutor, senator, and vice-president — which, dare I say, cannot be ignored and, in fact, enhance her policy interests and ability to effect positive change domestically and internationally. There is no doubt Harris will continue the work of the Biden-Harris administration.

David Salmon, in his article why this may be the case, provided a great summary of the “democratic performance” of the Biden-Harris administration, which essentially can be used to answer Karan’s question. Salmon outlined both the highlights and lowlights of this administration. Based on the information presented, any reasonable person would be able to conclude that Harris will likely continue and even build upon the policies introduced during their tenure, especially now that Biden has officially withdrawn from the race to the White House for a second term, endorsing Harris in the process.

Harris’ policies and ideas that will no doubt affect the US and the world include: first, a focus on economic equity, which aims to uplift marginalised communities through targeted investments in education, healthcare, and housing. This is being dubbed ‘Bidenomics’ by the American media. Second, her focus on climate change to ensure sustainable growth and job creation through robust green energy initiatives. Third, a focus on immigration reform, ensuring a fair and just approach. Finally, a focus on the country’s foreign policy, ensuring strong ties with allies and ultimately world peace. To put it simply, Harris’s policies and ideas are likely to promote the greatest good for all, as opposed to the greatest good for a few, the latter of which aligns more significantly with Trump’s policies and ideas.

KADINE FERGUSON