Republican presidential nominee and former U.S. President Donald Trump attends a campaign event in Asheville, North Carolina, U.S. August 14, 2024. REUTERS/Jonathan Drake
Trump Criticizes Kamala Harris in Policy-Focused Speech Amidst Tightening Race
Trump’s Renewed Focus on Policy
Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump delivered a speech in Asheville, North Carolina, on Wednesday, during which he attacked his Democratic opponent, Vice President Kamala Harris, both personally and on policy grounds. Trump’s remarks come at a time when his lead in opinion polls has narrowed significantly, prompting concern among his allies, donors, and advisers.
In his speech, Trump refrained from questioning Harris’ racial identity—a topic that has sparked controversy in the past—and instead emphasized policy issues. Despite this, he continued to insult Harris personally, calling her “stupid” and mocking her laugh as a “cackle.” However, he also criticized her policy positions in more detail than in recent speeches.
Impact of Harris’ Campaign on the Election
Since Harris emerged as the Democratic Party’s candidate following President Joe Biden’s decision not to seek re-election, the dynamics of the presidential race have shifted. Polls now indicate that Harris is closing the gap on Trump, with some even showing her in the lead as the November 5 election approaches. This surge in Harris’ support has unsettled Trump’s campaign, leading to a strategy of increasing personal attacks.
Debate Over Campaign Strategy
Some of Trump’s allies believe that his focus on personal attacks, particularly those related to Harris’ racial identity, may be damaging his campaign. Bill Bean, a significant Republican donor, expressed concerns that these attacks are counterproductive. Bean emphasized the need to target Harris’ policy record rather than her identity, a sentiment shared by other Trump supporters, including JD Vance, Trump’s vice-presidential pick.
In response to these concerns, Trump devoted part of his North Carolina speech to criticizing Harris’ policies. He pledged to expand drilling on federal lands, streamline the permitting process for pipelines, and take other measures aimed at reducing consumer prices. He also promised to cut energy and electricity prices in half within 12 to 18 months if elected, though he did not provide specific details on how these goals would be achieved.
Key Policy Disagreements
Trump targeted Harris’ stance on energy policy, accusing her of supporting a ban on fracking—a position that could be a significant liability in Pennsylvania, a key swing state where fracking is prevalent. While Harris previously opposed new fossil fuel infrastructure projects during her 2019 presidential campaign, her current campaign has clarified that she no longer supports a complete ban on fracking.
During his speech, Trump also introduced financier and informal economic adviser Scott Bessent, who is considered a potential contender for treasury secretary should Trump win the election.
Harris’ Campaign Response
In a memo released before Trump’s Asheville speech, Harris’ campaign communications director, Michael Tyler, criticized Trump for neglecting the middle class, citing his opposition to union protections and support for corporate tax cuts. Harris is scheduled to visit North Carolina on Friday, where she will deliver a speech in Raleigh focusing on economic policy. Her campaign has indicated that she will outline plans to reduce costs for middle-class families and combat corporate price-gouging.
Election Outlook in North Carolina
As of now, Trump maintains a narrow lead in North Carolina, according to an average of polls compiled by Real Clear Politics. However, Harris is gaining ground, a significant change from a month ago when Republicans appeared to have a comfortable lead in the state. The tightening race in North Carolina highlights the shifting electoral landscape as the November election approaches.
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