In the unfolding landscape of the 2024 presidential election, Vice President Kamala Harris has strategically released a comprehensive manifesto detailing her vision and policy commitments. This “to-do list,” designed to sway voters, is a blend of continuity with President Joe Biden’s administration and distinct proposals intended to set her apart in a competitive political arena.

At the heart of Harris’s agenda are policies that mirror and seek to extend Biden’s legislative efforts. The proposed continuation to cap insulin prices and reduce the cost of prescription drugs aligns with the initiatives undertaken by the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022. This serves as a testament to her commitment to maintaining and enhancing healthcare affordability — a cornerstone of the current administration.
Harris also reiterates her dedication to safeguarding Obamacare, advocating for its expansion by increasing contraceptive coverage. This echoes the administration’s stance on healthcare as a fundamental right, while her emphasis on clean energy and manufacturing investment aligns with the President’s “Made in America” policies, underscoring a focus on sustainability and domestic economic growth. The recent injection of $7.3 billion to facilitate clean energy in rural areas exemplifies this commitment.
However, Harris’s policy proposals are not without their broad strokes. Her calls for restoring reproductive freedoms and advocating for gun safety laws are emblematic of general Democratic positions, suggesting a reinforcement of existing party platforms rather than novel legislative innovations.



Interestingly, Harris diverges in her approach to certain issues, notably advocating for the legalization of recreational marijuana—a significant departure from the more cautious stance taken by Biden. This proposal signifies a pivot towards progressive reform in drug policy, reflecting changing societal attitudes and the potential for economic opportunities through regulation and taxation.
Economically, Harris proposes bold new strategies including the expansion of the child tax credit and sizable deductions for emerging small businesses. Such initiatives could provide a substantial boost to American families and entrepreneurs, promoting financial independence and capital growth within local communities.

Among the more contentious items in Harris’s agenda is the imposition of a federal ban on corporate price gouging of essential commodities, such as food and groceries. This move has sparked significant debate, with critics, including former President Donald Trump, likening it to “communist price control,” where government intervention disrupts free market dynamics. The philosophical divide surrounding this policy highlights a critical discussion on the role of government in regulating markets for the public good versus maintaining a laissez-faire economy.
In her campaign, Harris attempts to draw a clear line between her vision and that of her political opponents. During a rally in Atlanta, she articulated this distinction by contrasting her detailed policy list with what she portrayed as the adversarial machinations of Trump. This rhetorical positioning aims to resonate with voters seeking proactive governance over partisan gridlock.
As the election cycle progresses, Harris’s policy platform presents a tapestry of continuity, incremental change, and transformative propositions. It invites a larger discourse on the extent and direction of legislative actions necessary to advance the American promise in both social equity and economic viability. Such discussions will undoubtedly shape voter expectations and influence the political fortunes at a critical juncture for the nation.