Kent County, Michigan – Vice President Kamala Harris didn’t hold back in her latest speech, directly addressing claims made by Donald Trump regarding electric vehicle (EV) mandates. Speaking to a crowd of enthusiastic supporters, Harris clarified her stance on America’s future in electric vehicle production, while emphasizing her broader vision for an “opportunity economy.”
Building an Opportunity Economy for All Americans
“We believe in building a future together,” Harris began, delivering her message of unity and shared progress. She described her vision of an economy that benefits all Americans, regardless of background. Harris emphasized the importance of small businesses, calling them “the backbone of America’s economy,” and outlined her plan to help entrepreneurs thrive.
“I love our small businesses,” Harris said with a smile. “Under my plan, we will bring down the cost of housing and help small business owners grow.” Her words resonated deeply with the audience, many of whom were small business owners themselves.
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Expanding Medicare: A Personal Touch
Shifting gears, Harris shared a personal story about her experience caring for her mother during her illness. Her tale struck a chord with the crowd, many of whom have cared for elderly relatives. She explained the challenges of balancing caregiving with work and how current policies often force families to drain their savings or leave their jobs to qualify for Medicaid.
“My plan,” she explained, “will expand Medicare to cover the cost of home health care for our seniors.” Harris emphasized that her plan is rooted in dignity, giving every American the ability to care for their loved ones without financial strain. The crowd responded with enthusiastic applause, recognizing the significance of such a policy in their own lives.
Middle-Class Relief: Tax Cuts and Childcare Support
One of the central pillars of Harris’ “opportunity economy” is providing financial relief to middle-class families. She promised middle-class tax cuts for 100 million Americans, including a $6,000 tax credit for the first year of a child’s life.
“We need to help young parents,” Harris stated passionately. “Let’s make sure they can buy a car seat, a crib, and take care of that baby’s needs during their critical development phase.” This tax cut, she argued, would provide much-needed support to young families, allowing them to focus on parenting without the stress of financial hardship.
Standing Strong Against Price Gouging
Harris also highlighted her commitment to tackling corporate price gouging, drawing from her past experience. “I’ve taken on corporate price-gouging before, and I will do it again,” she declared to resounding cheers. By lowering the costs of essentials like healthcare and groceries, Harris’ plan aims to ease the financial burden on working-class Americans.
Responding to Trump: Electric Vehicles and American Manufacturing
Turning her attention to Trump’s recent remarks, Harris addressed accusations that she would force Americans into electric vehicle mandates. Trump has suggested that Harris’ administration would dictate the type of cars people could drive, particularly focusing on EVs.
Setting the record straight, Harris confidently declared, “I will never tell you what kind of car you have to drive.” This rebuttal was met with enthusiastic applause from the audience. She went on to explain her real approach—investing in America’s manufacturing industry to ensure that electric vehicles and other technological innovations are developed and built by American workers.
Harris made it clear that her priority is not about imposing mandates but rather fostering innovation and creating good-paying jobs. “We will ensure that the next generation of breakthroughs, from advanced batteries to electric vehicles, are not just invented but built right here in America by American union workers,” she asserted.
Investing in Manufacturing Communities
As Harris spoke about revitalizing American industry, she specifically addressed the people of Kent County, Michigan, highlighting her plans to invest in local manufacturing communities. “We will retool existing factories, hire locally, and work with unions to create good-paying jobs, including jobs that don’t require a college degree,” she promised.
Harris stressed that college degrees are not the only measure of a worker’s skill and experience. “Where I come from, I know a college degree is not the only measure of the skills and experience of a qualified worker,” she said, drawing cheers from the crowd. This message of inclusivity resonated with many, particularly those who have built successful careers without traditional higher education.
A Vision for America’s Future
As her speech drew to a close, Harris reiterated her vision for America’s future—a future built on opportunity, equality, and innovation. She emphasized her belief in creating an economy that works for everyone, whether through tax cuts for families, healthcare support for seniors, or job creation in manufacturing.
“We will build a future where every American has an opportunity to own a home, buy a car, build wealth, and start a business,” she declared. Her closing words were met with a standing ovation, as she called on the people of Michigan and beyond to unite in building a stronger, more equitable America.