Kamala Harris, the first female Vice President of the United States, has traversed a diverse political landscape throughout her career. From her roles as California's Attorney General and U.S. Senator to her current position, Harris has demonstrated a fluid approach to key issues, adapting her stances as she navigates the complex world of American politics.
Reproductive rights have been a cornerstone of Harris's platform. As the Democratic Party's leading voice on this issue, she has consistently advocated for abortion access. In March 2024, Harris made history by becoming the first sitting Vice President to visit a Planned Parenthood clinic, underscoring her commitment to this cause.
On economic matters, Harris has shown a more progressive inclination than President Joe Biden. During her 2020 presidential campaign, she proposed reversing the 2017 tax cuts implemented by the Trump administration, arguing for a more equitable economic system. Her tax plans included credits for lower-income workers and increased corporate tax rates, reflecting a desire to address income inequality.
Immigration has been a contentious issue for Harris. As Vice President, she was tasked with addressing the root causes of migration from Latin America, earning her the nickname "border tsar" from critics. Her approach has drawn fire from both sides of the political spectrum, with progressives criticizing her initial tough stance and conservatives lambasting her handling of border issues.
In foreign policy, Harris has shown a willingness to diverge from Biden's positions, particularly regarding the Israel-Palestine conflict. She has called for a stronger stance towards Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and advocated for increased humanitarian aid to Gaza. This approach could potentially help regain support from Democratic voters disillusioned with the administration's response to the conflict.
On Ukraine, Harris has been a staunch supporter of providing aid to defend against Russian aggression. She has met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky multiple times and warned against isolationist tendencies within the U.S., emphasizing the importance of international cooperation.
Climate change is another area where Harris has demonstrated a progressive stance. Her 2020 campaign proposals were more ambitious than Biden's, including a carbon tax and significant investment in climate initiatives. As Vice President, she has continued to emphasize the urgency of addressing environmental issues.
Gun control remains a priority for Harris, who has campaigned for stricter firearms regulations. She has supported assault weapon bans and universal background checks, while also acknowledging her past gun ownership for personal safety as a prosecutor.
As the 2024 election approaches, Harris's evolving positions on these critical issues will likely play a significant role in shaping her political future and potential presidential aspirations.
"Frankly, this economy is not working for working people. For too long the rules have been written in the favour of the people who have the most and not in favour of the people who work the most."