By William Schuster,
Staff Writer.
As the 2024 presidential election looms ever near, it is increasingly important to understand the goals and intentions of our presidential candidates, especially for those able to vote in the November election. Facing off against each other, former President Donald Trump and current Vice President Kamala Harris are two incredibly varied personalities with vastly different beliefs and values, and their plans and objectives mirror that divide.
Harris, the Democratic nominee, is focused on investments in infrastructure and renewable energy. She plans to provide economic assistance to first-time home buyers and start-up business-owners with the intention of creating an opportunity economy and strengthening the middle class. Harris also has a strong stance on women’s rights, specifically the right to get an abortion, which she claims she will protect steadfastly.
Furthermore, Harris is advocating for a ceasefire in the Israel-Gaza War, saying she supports both Israel and Palestine’s rights to defend themselves and simply wishes for an end to the conflict. She also fully supports Ukraine against Russia and wishes to continue providing aid to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
In contrast, Republican nominee Donald Trump is focused on reinforcing his party’s conservative ideals and “making America great again.” He continues to claim that he will enforce further tax cuts aimed at large corporations and the wealthy, reduce inflation and improve the country’s economy. Regarding immigration, one of Trump’s main priorities, his plan is to organize a mass deportation of undocumented immigrants and increase enforcement at the southern border, though it is likely he will face large logistical challenges if he attempts to do so. Domestically, Trump is adamantly against renewable energy projects such as offshore wind farms and is vowing to cut regulations and environmental protections.
Also, Trump is against ensuring the right to an abortion on a federal level, believing that such decisions should be left to the states. In reference to the war between Ukraine and Russia, Trump claims he plans to negotiate a way to end the fighting as soon as possible and opposes sending further military aid to Ukraine. In regards to the Israel-Gaza War, Trump is a strong supporter of Israel, saying in a debate with President Joe Biden that Israel should “finish the job.” Trump hasn’t said much about his plans for the United States’ involvement in the war.
Overall, both candidates have greatly contrasting ideals, positions and policies, and this election will have immense effects on America as a whole, no matter who gets elected.
