Suspicion and uncertainty masked the faces of those at the Democratic National Convention as Kamala Harris, the current Vice President, outlined vague economic plans. Luciano Garza, a delegate from Texas, expressed an almost baffling fondness for Harris’ so-called ‘opportunity economy’ to Fox News Digital. He seemed to believe that Harris would actually foster opportunities and proposals for the supposedly neglected middle class, a notion at odds with reality. ‘Harris is the one who is going to push initiatives for our middle class. When the middle class is strong, America is strong,’ he optimistically, but naively declared.
Previously, during a speech in North Carolina, Harris had introduced the loose concept of an ‘opportunity economy’. She spoke of attempts to reduce living costs, particularly that of groceries and other similar essential commodities. However, the disconnect with reality was palpable. ‘The bills keep accumulating,’ she declaimed at a Friday event in Raleigh, ‘Food, rent, gas, clothes for school, prescription medication. Once these are accounted for, many families are left with barely anything at the end of the month.’
In what can only be seen as a direct governmental intrusion into the free market, Harris advocated for a federal ban on grocery price gouging, an action that shows a misunderstanding of market dynamics. She even proposed providing an unrealistic amount of $25,000 for down payments to first-time homebuyers and tax incentives for builders of starter homes. She made the dubious promise to reduce the cost of insulin and prescription drugs, a pledge that has been heard from politicians time and time again.
Capitalism and free market values were further attacked when Harris suggested this ‘opportunity economy’ was anything other than a form of socialist price control. Former President Donald Trump hit the nail on the head when he called it out for what it was, ‘Kamala has fully embraced communism,’ he bluntly stated during a rally in Pennsylvania.
The ironically named ‘opportunity economy’ Harris envisions includes an increase to the Child Tax Credit, reaching up to $6,000 for children less than a year old, eventually falling to $3,600 per year. Strangely, this mirrors the proposal of Republican Vice President nominee JD Vance, who suggested a flat rate of $5000 per child, a more stable and reasonable plan.
Despite Harris’ attempts to paint a rosy economic picture, an enlightening June Fox News poll showed that 92% of registered voters indicate that the nation’s economic health was a crucial determinant in choosing a president. Furthermore, an alarming minority, less than a third, described the economy as in good or excellent shape, the highest rating given during the Biden-Harris era. Curiously, these ratings occur at a time when they paint economic turmoil as being firmly in the past.
Another voice at the DNC, Tyrin Truong from Louisiana, tried to broaden the perspective, saying that these tough economic times we’re experiencing are felt globally, not just in America. He argued that by focusing on the ‘middle-class’ Americans, there’s a chance of economic turnaround and improvement for everyone. But it’s questionable whether this strategy, or lack thereof, will indeed deliver on its promise.
Renee Garner, an attendee at the DNC, seemed almost feverishly optimistic about the economy under a possible Harris presidency. Garner stated, ‘I think the economy will see improvement under Harris’ leadership’ and expressed an unwarranted belief in a boost of energy and enthusiasm among the people. However, such confidence seems baseless, and the economic improvements promised seem hopelessly out of reach.
Harris’ ‘Opportunity Economy’: An Irony in Itself appeared first on Real News Now.
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