When it comes to the candidates’ policy positions and personal integrity, there’s a clear choice.
I do not agree with Vice President Kamala Harris on every issue, but earlier this week, I voted for her without hesitation. I’d like to explain why, in hopes that others who have a history of supporting candidates in both parties — as I do — will join me.
As I’ve thought about the candidates in this presidential election, I’ve been guided by two main considerations: policy positions and personal integrity.
When it comes to policy, the contrast could not be clearer.
On abortion, Harris supports reproductive rights and will work to enshrine them into law. Donald Trump does not and will not.
On immigration, Harris recognizes — as most business owners do — that we need comprehensive immigration reform that both secures the border and makes it easier for people to come here legally. Trump’s plan to deport millions of people living and working here is a recipe for economic disaster.
On gun safety, Harris supports common-sense measures that will help save lives and keep guns out of the hands of criminals and other dangerous people. Trump, after talking a big game about standing up to the gun industry’s lobbyists, buckled under their pressure and did their bidding.
On the economy, Harris’ tax and tariff proposals are politically driven, but as many economists have noted, they would do far less damage to consumers and businesses — and to the national debt — than Trump’s.
On climate change, Harris recognizes the opportunity that exists for the US to reap the economic rewards that come with leading the clean energy transition rather than allowing China or other nations to beat us to it. Trump doesn’t seem to believe climate change is a problem and would allow the fossil fuel industry to continue polluting our air and water.
On public health, Harris respects science and medicine, including lifesaving vaccines. Trump has promised to turn over America’s health system to anti-vaxxer Robert Kennedy Jr., which could have deadly consequences for children, seniors and Americans of all ages.
On public safety, Harris has a record as a prosecutor of being tough on crime and standing with police. Trump talks tough, but when police officers were assaulted by a mob of his supporters on Jan. 6, 2021, as part of his disgraceful attempt to hold onto power, he sat by and did nothing. And he continues to defend those who assaulted police — he even lauds them as “warriors” — as they stormed the Capitol.
And that brings us to the other consideration: personal integrity.