Vice President Kamala Harris is scheduled to announce her manufacturing policy on Wednesday in Pittsburgh, a city renowned for its steel industry within a key state for the upcoming presidential election.
Harris plans to emphasize her economic philosophy, which she describes as “pragmatic” rather than ideological, according to her campaign. Her approach includes a commitment to collaborate with the private sector and entrepreneurs.
During her speech, Harris is expected to draw a clear distinction between herself and former President Donald Trump. She will portray herself as a product of the middle class, contrasting with her Republican opponent, who she will suggest comes from wealth. According to a senior campaign official, Harris plans to assert, “For Donald Trump, our economy works best if it works for those who own the big skyscrapers. Not those who build them. Not those who wire them. Not those who mop the floors.”
Both Harris and Trump are actively reaching out to undecided voters in swing states as early voting commences and with only 40 days remaining before Election Day. Harris has made seven prior visits to Pennsylvania since launching her presidential bid in July, including spending several days in Pittsburgh earlier this month to prepare for her debate against Trump.
Earlier this week, Trump delivered an economic speech in Georgia, another critical swing state. He outlined his plans to lower the tax rate for manufacturers, cut regulations, increase tariffs on imported goods, and provide federal land to manufacturers if he is re-elected.
Polling indicates that Trump holds an edge over Harris on economic issues, although his lead on this matter is narrower compared to his advantage over President Joe Biden.
President Biden’s economic policy has also focused on manufacturing, continuing some of Trump’s strategies, such as implementing tariffs and subsidies to encourage companies to relocate back from overseas. However, these measures have not significantly bolstered his popularity, as voters hold Biden accountable for the high cost of living.
Throughout her campaign, Harris has concentrated on initiatives to reduce housing and family costs and provide incentives to small businesses. Her campaign believes that voters are more interested in understanding Harris’ priorities and vision rather than hearing detailed policy proposals.