Vice President Kamala Harris faced a wave of criticism from conservative commentators after calling for Americans to move on from "failed policies" in a speech focused on the economy. Speaking at The Economic Club of Pittsburgh, Harris emphasized the need for innovation and a revitalized middle class, stating that it was time to leave behind policies that "we have proven don't work." However, her remarks quickly drew sharp reactions on social media, with critics pointing out the irony of the sitting vice president calling for change.
Harris's speech, part of her broader effort to position herself as a champion of middle-class Americans ahead of the 2024 election, was intended to highlight new proposals aimed at supporting economic growth. She discussed initiatives such as increasing tax breaks for small businesses and offering a $25,000 credit for first-time homebuyers, all aimed at building what she described as "a stronger middle class."
"When the middle class is strong, America is strong," Harris declared. "We need to move past the failed policies that we have proven don't work. Let us be inspired by what is possible."
While Harris sought to emphasize the potential for economic improvement, her comments were seized upon by political commentators who mocked the idea of distancing from "failed policies" given her role in the current administration. Steve Cortes, a former advisor to the 2020 Trump campaign, quipped on social media, "Acceptance is the first step," sarcastically suggesting that Harris was inadvertently acknowledging policy failures during her own time in office.
Other conservative voices joined in. "Who wants to tell her?" asked Buzz Patterson, a columnist for RedState. Babylon Bee CEO Seth Dillon went further, suggesting, "Kamala Harris says we need to move past the failed policies that don't work. She's telling you to vote for Trump. Listen to her."
Critics from within the political arena also weighed in. Texas Republican Rep. Troy Nehls tweeted, "The American people are sick and tired of the Harris-Biden administration's failed policies. November can't come soon enough!" These responses showcased the contentious nature of the current political environment as both Democrats and Republicans gear up for the 2024 election cycle.
Harris's critics were quick to capitalize on her remarks to suggest a disconnect between her messaging and her current political role. Some pointed to the optics of Harris advocating for a shift away from the very policies her administration has championed. Podcaster Stephen L. Miller observed, "Quite the optics today as Harris is out saying we need to move past failed policies while the old man is on The View saying he delegated everything to her in his administration."
Harris also took the opportunity during her address to criticize her 2024 opponent, calling former President Donald Trump "one of the biggest losers ever." This echoed comments made earlier that day by President Biden, who, during an appearance on The View, similarly referred to Trump in disparaging terms.
Yet despite Harris's attempts to highlight her economic proposals and distinguish her campaign, polls continue to show her trailing Trump on key issues such as the economy and inflation. Recent polling indicates that voters remain more confident in Trump's ability to manage these areas, making Harris's challenge all the more significant as she seeks to reshape her economic message.
In recent weeks, Harris has been making the economy a central theme of her public remarks, attempting to narrow the gap between herself and Trump on what remains Americans' top concern. The Pittsburgh speech, focusing on building a stronger middle class, was another step in that direction. However, the backlash illustrates the difficulties she faces as she tries to bridge the divide between her current role and her vision for the future.
