In a recent segment on a conservative news channel, the discussion turned to the ongoing economic concerns that have been simmering under the surface of the Harris campaign. With mounting issues brought on by inflation and worker negotiations, it seems the vice presidency has morphed into a hot seat, not a throne. Recent events indicate that the mood over at the Harris campaign might have a brief breath of relief — for now. Yet, according to some analysts, luck should not be considered a viable strategy when steering the ship of state.
One might say that the blame game has found a new target: Kamala Harris. The argument is that if she hadn’t cast that tie-breaking vote for the American Rescue Plan, the current economic strife the country faces might have been averted altogether. The reckless spending that ensued has fanned the flames of inflation, much to the chagrin of American workers who feel the squeeze at the gas pump and grocery store. As one expert pointed out, union negotiations have been fraught, particularly in the face of automation and wage disputes, and the absence of foresight regarding inflation has compounded these issues. Now, a union leader named Harold Daggett seems to be using his influence to push for more recognition from the administration.
The conversation turned towards the vice president’s leadership, or lack thereof. Many commentators have voiced skepticism about Harris’s ability to tackle pressing issues effectively. The American public, they argue, craves confidence from their leaders, particularly during turbulent economic times. Unfortunately, a string of incidents, including delayed responses to crises and lackluster initiatives, has left voters feeling uncertain about her capability to lead. It’s almost as if the Democrats thought they could hit pause on the economy as they did during the pandemic, claiming that everything would reset to ‘normal.’ Unfortunately for them, real life doesn’t come with a reset button.
The tension has bred criticism directed at two key figures in the current administration: Kamala Harris and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. Recent polling shows Harris struggling to garner support among union members. This is a significant concern since unions traditionally hold considerable sway in American politics. A humorous moment emerged when a reporter asked union workers about their support for Harris, only to be met with laughter and silence. It seems that when it comes to earning the trust and support of those working on the ground, Harris has quite the uphill battle.
In a surprising twist, former Republican Congresswoman Liz Cheney has recently joined Harris defenders, though that allegiance seems to stem more from a shared disdain for Donald Trump than any cohesive political strategy. Critics have been quick to point out that Cheney, who has faced backlash herself, appears to be aligning with a party that is rapidly distancing itself from traditional conservative values. It raises the question: is this about a concerted effort to champion Harris, or just an anti-Trump crusade?
While it’s easy to poke fun at the political drama and back-and-forth among these figures, the reality for everyday Americans is much less amusing. As inflation rates climb and economic struggles deepen, the hope for effective leadership grows dimmer by the day. The stakes couldn’t be higher as the timeline for resolving these issues looms on the horizon. Instead of a sigh of relief, perhaps a call to action may be in order for the Harris campaign, lest they find themselves scrambling once again when the clock strikes January 15th.