In a significant move aimed at addressing the nation’s housing crisis and securing support from Black voters, Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic candidate for president, has laid out her plans for tackling these crucial issues.
Speaking at a forum organized by the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) in Philadelphia, Harris acknowledged the immense pressure Americans are facing due to skyrocketing housing costs. She underscored the need to increase housing supply and lower costs, emphasizing a collaborative approach between the government and private sector.
Harris’ housing plan aligns with her broader economic agenda, which includes expanding the child tax credit to $6,000 and ensuring that no family pays more than 7% of their income on childcare. This commitment to economic security resonates strongly with Black voters, who are particularly affected by housing instability and the cost of childcare.
The appearance at the NABJ forum is particularly significant, as Harris skipped the organization’s annual convention in July, where her Republican opponent, Donald Trump, made a controversial appearance. Trump’s attempt to court Black voters has been met with mixed results, as his past rhetoric and policies have alienated many within this historically Democratic-leaning voting bloc. While Trump’s campaign seeks to capitalize on dissatisfaction among some Black voters, particularly younger men, Harris is actively working to solidify her support within this crucial demographic.
Both Harris and Trump are focusing their campaigns on battleground states like Pennsylvania and Georgia, where Black voters are critical to electoral success. Georgia, in particular, has the highest proportion of Black voters among the seven battleground states, making it a fiercely competitive race.
As the election draws closer, Harris’ campaign is facing questions about the specifics of her policies on issues like education, criminal justice, and the economy – topics of great importance to Black voters. Trump, meanwhile, continues to face challenges in wooing Black voters due to his past inflammatory remarks and accusations that Republican-backed voting laws are designed to suppress Black voter turnout. Republicans, however, deny that their policies are intended to restrict voting.
With a focus on housing, economic security, and outreach to key voting blocs, Harris’ campaign is seeking to build momentum in the lead up to the 2024 election.
