Days before the Democratic National Convention, Vice President Kamala Harris is enjoying a surge in positive polls and energetic rallies. However, beyond the enthusiasm, where does the presumed Democratic presidential nominee stand on important issues? While she has not yet released a detailed platform, her time as a California senator, prosecutor, her 2020 presidential campaign, and her role as vice president provide insight into her stance on various policies. Some of her positions have evolved over time, leading to challenges in defining herself. To gain a better understanding of her potential policy agenda, BBC News analyzed Ms. Harris’ recent speeches, public statements as a 2024 candidate, her record as vice president, and her political history as a senator and prosecutor.
According to her campaign, Vice President Harris will continue the Biden-Harris Administration’s agenda, focusing on issues such as defeating Big Pharma, job creation, and bipartisan gun safety legislation. Her economic plan includes initiatives like mortgage assistance for first-time homebuyers, tax credits for new parents, and measures to combat inflation. On immigration, her approach has shifted, with a focus on addressing the root causes of migration from Central American countries. She remains committed to bipartisan solutions for border security.
Ms. Harris is a strong advocate for women’s reproductive rights and has vowed to sign legislation restoring reproductive freedoms if elected president. She has gained support from prominent reproductive rights advocacy groups. On foreign policy, she has traveled extensively and supports Nato and aid to Ukraine. She advocates for a two-state solution in the Israel-Gaza conflict.
In terms of taxes, Ms. Harris has supported progressive tax measures, including raising the corporate tax rate. On healthcare, she has championed expanding access to Medicare but does not support a single-payer system. Her record on crime as a prosecutor and attorney general has faced criticism from both the left and the right, with some labeling her as “a cop”. She has also been a vocal advocate for climate protection laws.
Overall, Vice President Harris’ positions on key issues reflect a mix of progressive and pragmatic approaches, shaped by her diverse political experience.