Staff Reports
Kamala Harris is currently engaged in a grand economic battle, attempting to convince women, minorities, and anyone else who might listen that her economic policies can outshine the Trump administration’s record. As she focuses her campaign efforts on demographics that traditionally lean Democratic, she must wrestle with the inconvenient truth that many of these groups experienced better economic conditions when Donald Trump occupied the White House. It’s a tough sell when she’s tasked with defending Bidenomics, a blueprint that has quickly become synonymous with skyrocketing inflation and spiraling costs.
In recent weeks, the stark contrasts between the two candidates’ economic visions have come to light. Trump has declared his successes from his presidency, showcasing impressive statistics like job and wage growth, particularly among minority populations. Harris, meanwhile, struggles to find the silver lining in an economy rattled by inflation—essentially, she’s clutching at straws while trying to paint a pretty picture of financial despair. Whether she tries to tout the rising stock market or the marginal increase in jobs, most voters aren’t buying it when their grocery bills keep climbing.
As she courts women and minorities, Harris faces harsh reality they fared well in Trump economy https://t.co/Bky4w3EXER
— John Solomon (@jsolomonReports) August 22, 2024
Quantifying the economic health of different demographics provides a clearer picture of the challenges Harris faces. Recent data indicates that many working women saw their wages increase substantially under Trump, with the actual value of their earnings appreciating. Conversely, under Biden’s watch, those earnings have largely stagnated when adjusted for inflation. In fact, the economic burden has only intensified with the rising costs of essentials—a reality that Harris attempted to sidestep in her campaign rhetoric. This unfortunate trend does not bode well for her appeal among female voters who are acutely aware of their diminishing purchasing power.
The challenges for Harris do not end with women; the Hispanic and Latino populations present an uphill battle as well. Many of them are shifting their allegiances toward the GOP, with Trump’s outreach efforts bearing fruit. Trump’s record in office has resulted in a notable increase in their earnings and a significant dip in unemployment rates before the pandemic struck. Even now, the balancing act between recovery and rising inflation generates skepticism about Harris’s promises. Instead of meaningful economic advantages, the Hispanic community has witnessed price hikes under the current administration, making it difficult to garner their support.
Black Americans represent yet another piece of the puzzle that Harris must navigate delicately. While her past attempts to connect with this demographic yielded modest results, Trump’s improved standing among black voters could be a game-changer. Economic statistics demonstrate that median earnings for black Americans saw substantial gains during Trump’s presidency. Despite the Biden administration claiming job growth, many black Americans are likely cognizant of the inflationary pressures that have wiped away those gains—leading them to question the benefits of a Biden-Harris continued leadership.
In this political theater, overall impressions of economic health will determine the outcome of campaigns. As Harris grapples with the realities of an economy under strain, Trump appears more likely to resonate with the demographics that have directly felt the effects of inflation and fluctuating wages. Democrats often preach about unity and support for these communities. Still, when the numbers tell a different story, it only amplifies the realization that a return to Trump’s economic policies might hold more promise for the very groups Harris is hoping to woo.
