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Trump vs. Harris: A Side-by-Side Comparison of Their Stances on Key Issues Relevant to Voters

Picture of Lara van Dijk
Published by Lara van Dijk
Edited: 4 days ago
Published: November 10, 2024
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Trump vs. Harris: A Side-by-Side Comparison of Their Stances on Key Issues Introduction In the 2020 United States presidential election, voters face a clear choice between two prominent political figures: the incumbent President Donald J. Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris, who is running as Joe Biden’s democratic nominee. To

Trump vs. Harris: A Side-by-Side Comparison of Their Stances on Key Issues Relevant to Voters

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Trump vs. Harris: A Side-by-Side Comparison of Their Stances on Key Issues

Introduction

In the 2020 United States presidential election, voters face a clear choice between two prominent political figures: the incumbent President Donald J. Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris, who is running as Joe Biden’s democratic nominee. To help you make an informed decision, we present a side-by-side comparison of their stances on several key issues that matter to American voters.

Economy

Donald Trump: Focuses on tax cuts, deregulation, and job growth through America First policies. Believes in reducing the national debt and strengthening infrastructure.

Kamala Harris: Advocates for a progressive economic agenda, including investing in education, health care, affordable housing, and clean energy. Supports raising minimum wage and increasing social security benefits.

Health Care

Donald Trump: Has tried to repeal the Affordable Care Act (ACA, or Obamacare) multiple times. Believes in market-driven healthcare and expanding access to telemedicine services.

Kamala Harris: Supports expanding the ACA, including creating a public option for health insurance. Advocates for lowering prescription drug costs and addressing mental health issues.

Climate Change

Donald Trump: Denies human impact on climate change and has rolled back numerous environmental regulations. Believes in increasing domestic energy production.

Kamala Harris: Recognizes human-induced climate change and supports the Green New Deal, aiming to transition to 100% renewable energy by 2030.

Foreign Policy

Donald Trump: Emphasizes America First and pursues a nationalist foreign policy. Has taken a hardline stance on China, North Korea, and Iran.

Kamala Harris: Advocates for diplomacy, multilateralism, and working with allies to address global challenges. Supports rejoining international organizations such as the Paris Agreement and World Health Organization.

Social Issues

Donald Trump: Has taken a conservative stance on social issues, including opposing LGBTQ+ rights and advocating for restrictive immigration policies.

Kamala Harris: Champions progressive values and advocates for equal rights, including women’s rights, LGBTQ+ rights, racial equality, and criminal justice reform.



2020 Presidential Election: Key Issues and Contenders

The 2020 presidential election is an important event that will shape the future of the United States for years to come. Understanding where the candidates stand on key issues can help voters make informed decisions when casting their ballots. The following is an introduction to the two main contenders: President Donald Trump of the Republican Party and Vice President Kamala Harris of the Democratic Party.

Key Issues

Some of the key issues in the 2020 presidential election include:

  • Economy: The state of the economy is a major concern for many voters. Both parties have different approaches to economic policy.
  • Health Care: The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare, is a contentious issue. Some argue that it needs to be expanded while others believe it should be repealed.
  • Climate Change: The role of the government in addressing climate change is a key debate. Some believe that bold action is necessary while others argue for a more gradual approach.
  • Social Issues: Issues such as abortion, LGBTQ+ rights, and gun control are important to many voters.

President Donald Trump

Donald Trump, the incumbent president, ran in 2016 on a platform of America First. He has taken a hardline stance on immigration, implemented tax cuts, and pursued a more aggressive foreign policy.

Economy

Trump has touted the strong economy under his administration, with record-low unemployment rates and a booming stock market. However, critics argue that the benefits have not been evenly distributed.

Health Care

Trump has expressed a desire to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act, but his efforts have been unsuccessful. He has also taken steps to weaken the law through executive orders.

Climate Change

Trump has withdrawn the US from the Paris Climate Agreement and rolled back numerous environmental regulations. He has also expressed skepticism about the scientific consensus on climate change.

Social Issues

Trump has taken a conservative stance on social issues, including abortion and LGBTQ+ rights. He has also been criticized for his handling of protests and demonstrations.

Vice President Kamala Harris

Kamala Harris, the Democratic vice president nominee, has a record of progressive policy positions. She has taken strong stances on issues such as health care, climate change, and social justice.

Economy

Harris has advocated for policies that would expand access to affordable health care, increase the minimum wage, and provide relief to small businesses.

Health Care

Harris has expressed support for a single-payer health care system, but has also supported more incremental reforms. She has also taken steps to address the high cost of prescription drugs.

Climate Change

Harris has made climate change a top priority, and has called for the US to rejoin the Paris Climate Agreement. She has also proposed ambitious plans to transition to renewable energy.

Social Issues

Harris has taken strong stands on social issues, including reproductive rights and LGBTQ+ rights. She has also expressed a desire to address systemic racism and police brutality.

Background of the Candidates

President Donald Trump

Donald J. Trump, born on June 14, 1946, is the 45th President of the United States (2017-present) and a business magnate. Prior to his presidency, he hosted “The Apprentice,” a reality TV show. In politics, he served as the 45th Governor of New York (2001-2009).

Political Career

Trump joined the Republican Party in 2009, and in 2015, he announced his presidential campaign. He gained a significant following due to his controversial statements on immigration, trade, and foreign policy.

Accomplishments

In his first term, Trump’s administration accomplished several goals: tax cuts (TCJA), deregulation, judicial appointments, and the USMCA trade deal.

Controversies

Trump’s administration has faced numerous controversies, including several investigations regarding Russian interference in the 2016 election and various allegations of ethical violations. Immigration policies, such as the travel ban on several predominantly Muslim countries, have also sparked controversy and protests.

Vice President Kamala Harris

Kamala Devi Harris, born on October 20, 1964, is the 49th Vice President of the United States (2021-present). She previously served as a U.S. Senator from California (2017-2021) and was the first woman, and first person of South Asian and African American descent to hold this position.

Political Career

Harris started her political career as a District Attorney of San Francisco (2004-2010), then became the Attorney General of California (2011-2017). In 2016, she was elected as a U.S. Senator representing California.

Accomplishments

As Vice President, Harris has focused on addressing climate change, expanding voting rights, and promoting racial equality.

Immigration Policy

Harris has been a vocal advocate for comprehensive immigration reform, including a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants.

Economy and Jobs

Her policy initiatives include creating jobs, increasing access to affordable housing, and investing in infrastructure projects.

Healthcare

Harris supports expanding access to affordable healthcare, including supporting the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and addressing prescription drug costs.

I Comparison of Stances: Issue 1 – Immigration

A. The Trump administration‘s immigration policies have been a subject of much controversy. One of the most notable policies was the travel ban on several Muslim-majority countries, which sparked protests and legal challenges. Another contentious issue was the practice of family separation at the border, which resulted in thousands of children being separated from their parents. Lastly, there was the proposed wall along the Mexican border, a symbol of the administration’s hardline stance on immigration.

B.

In contrast, Kamala Harris‘s stance on immigration is markedly different. She has been a vocal advocate for comprehensive immigration reform, which includes a path to citizenship for undocumented immigrants. Harris has also called for an end to family separation and the travel ban, arguing that these policies are inconsistent with American values.

C.

The differences in policy approaches between the Trump administration and Harris could have significant implications for voters. The former’s stance on immigration is seen as divisive and exclusionary, while the latter’s proposals are viewed as more inclusive and compassionate. However, it’s important to note that comprehensive immigration reform is a complex issue with many nuances, and both sides have valid concerns. Ultimately, the outcome of this debate could sway voters in key swing states and potentially influence the election.

D.

It’s also worth mentioning that public opinion on immigration

has shifted significantly in recent years

. According to a link, a majority of Americans now support allowing more immigrants to come to the U.S. permanently, and a growing number believe that undocumented immigrants should be able to apply for citizenship. These trends could further impact the immigration debate and influence voters’ decisions.

Trump vs. Harris: A Side-by-Side Comparison of Their Stances on Key Issues Relevant to Voters

Comparison of Stances: Issue 2 – Economy and Jobs

Trump administration’s economic policies and their implications

  • Tax Cuts:

    • The Trump administration‘s signature economic policy was the link (TCJA) of 2017, which reduced corporate taxes from 35% to 21%, and provided individual tax cuts as well. The administration argued that these cuts would stimulate economic growth and job creation. However, some critics argue that the bulk of the benefits went to corporations and high-income Americans.

  • Trade deals:

    • The Trump administration also pursued a more protectionist stance on trade, renegotiating the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) into the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), and imposing tariffs on Chinese imports, among other actions. Supporters argue that these moves would protect American industries and jobs, while critics contend that they could lead to higher prices for consumers and potential retaliation from trading partners.

Harris’ proposed economic policies

  • Raise the Wage Act:

    • Senator Kamala Harris has supported the link, which would gradually increase the federal minimum wage to $15 per hour by 2025. Harris argues that this would help reduce income inequality and boost consumer spending, but opponents contend that it could lead to job losses, particularly in low-wage industries.

  • Infrastructure investments:

    • Harris has also advocated for significant infrastructure investments, proposing a $1 trillion plan that would create millions of jobs. This could include projects such as upgrading roads and bridges, expanding public transportation, and modernizing schools and other public buildings.

  • Affordable healthcare and education:

    • Harris has also emphasized the importance of affordable healthcare and education, proposing plans to expand access to both. For healthcare, she supports a “Medicare for All” approach, while for education, she has proposed making public colleges and universities tuition-free for families earning under $100,000 per year.

Analysis of the differences in policy approaches and potential impacts on voters

The economic policies of the Trump administration and Senator Harris represent starkly different approaches. While the Trump administration has focused on tax cuts, trade deals, and deregulation, Harris’ proposals include significant investments in infrastructure, minimum wage increases, affordable healthcare, and education.

The potential impacts on voters depend on various factors, including their income level, geographic location, and political ideology. For example, those in low-wage industries may benefit from a higher minimum wage, while businesses that rely on international trade could be negatively affected by tariffs. Infrastructure investments could create jobs and improve economic mobility for many Americans, but may come with significant upfront costs. Ultimately, the economic policies of both candidates offer different trade-offs and promises, and voters will need to consider these when making their decision in the 2020 election.

Trump vs. Harris: A Side-by-Side Comparison of Their Stances on Key Issues Relevant to Voters

Comparison of Stances: Issue 3 – Healthcare

A. The Trump administration‘s healthcare policies have been characterized by efforts to repeal the ACA, also known as Obamacare. One of their most notable attempts was the unsuccessful attempt to repeal and replace the ACA through bills like the American Health Care Act and the Graham-Cassidy bill. Instead, they focused on executive orders and regulatory changes, such as expanding short-term health insurance plans and allowing the formation of association health plans. These changes allowed for less comprehensive coverage that could be sold across state lines and were not required to comply with the ACA’s essential benefits. However, these plans did not provide the same level of coverage as traditional insurance plans and left many consumers with gaps in their coverage.

B.

In contrast, Senator Kamala Harris‘s proposed healthcare policies include strong support for the ACA and its expansion through a public option. She has also called for bold initiatives to lower prescription drug prices and make Medicare available for all Americans over 60. Her plan, the “Medicare-for-All” proposal, aims to provide comprehensive healthcare coverage to every American through a single-payer system, eliminating the need for private insurance.

Analysis of the differences in policy approaches and potential impacts on voters

The stark difference between the Trump administration’s healthcare policies, which focus on deregulation and individual market solutions, and Harris’ plan to expand coverage through a public option and Medicare-for-All illustrates the stark divide between the two candidates. The Trump administration’s policies catered to those who wanted less government intervention and more personal responsibility for healthcare, while Harris’ proposals resonated with voters seeking comprehensive coverage and affordability. The potential impact on voters will depend on their priorities – those who value individual choice and lower premiums may prefer the Trump administration’s approach, while those who prioritize broad coverage and affordability may be more inclined towards Harris’ proposals.

Trump vs. Harris: A Side-by-Side Comparison of Their Stances on Key Issues Relevant to Voters

VI. Conclusion

As the 2020 U.S. Presidential Election approaches, it is essential to understand the key policy differences between the two major contenders: President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris. Here’s a recap of their contrasting stances on three critical issues:

Immigration

President Trump’s immigration policy focuses on border security and limiting both legal and illegal immigration. He aims to build a wall along the U.S.-Mexico border, limit asylum seekers, and reduce work visas. Conversely, Vice President Harris supports a more inclusive approach, advocating for comprehensive immigration reform, including a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants and addressing the root causes of migration from Central America.

Economy/Jobs

President Trump: His economic platform revolves around deregulation, tax cuts, and job creation. He claims that his administration’s policies have led to record-low unemployment rates before the pandemic. Vice President Harris: She supports a more progressive economic agenda, which includes raising the minimum wage, expanding affordable healthcare, and addressing income inequality.

Healthcare

President Trump has attempted to dismantle the Affordable Care Act (ACA) or “Obamacare,” which provides health insurance coverage for millions of Americans. He supports a more market-driven approach to healthcare. In contrast, Vice President Harris and the Democratic Party aim to expand the ACA by adding a public option, lowering prescription drug costs, and addressing rising healthcare premiums.

Discussion of Influence on Voters

These policy differences might significantly influence voters’ decisions. Trump supporters may appreciate his focus on border security, deregulation, and tax cuts. On the other hand, Harris’ progressive policies on immigration, healthcare, and income inequality might resonate with Democratic and independent voters.

Encouragement for Informed Decision-Making

We encourage readers: to educate themselves further on these issues and make an informed decision when casting their vote. Engage in thoughtful conversations, fact-check information, and consider the implications of each candidate’s policies on your personal life, community, and the nation as a whole.

Additional Sources:

For more information, please refer to the official websites of the candidates and reputable news sources. Stay informed, stay engaged, and remember – your vote matters!

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11/10/2024