Kamala Harris has announced a new initiative aimed at lowering the cost of basic necessities, addressing concerns about skyrocketing prices that have affected families across the country. Speaking in North Carolina, Harris emphasized that alleviating financial strain on the middle class would be a cornerstone of her presidency.
In her speech, Harris proposed a federal ban on price gouging by food producers and grocery stores to curb rising food costs.
Additionally, she outlined a plan for $25,000 in down payment assistance for certain first-time homebuyers and tax incentives to encourage the construction of affordable, starter homes.
“Every day, families discuss their hopes for the future and how they can achieve them financially, but the rising cost of living makes that difficult,” Harris said. “Between food, rent, gas, and healthcare, many are left with little at the end of the month.”
Her remarks come in response to increasing criticism, including from Donald Trump, who has blamed her for rising inflation. Harris and Biden’s administration have faced scrutiny over significant price hikes across key sectors, including housing, energy, and healthcare, with inflation still a top concern for many Americans.
Under their leadership, housing costs have risen 22%, food costs by 23%, and energy costs by 32%. Meanwhile, electricity costs surged by 28%, healthcare by 18%, and car insurance premiums by 53%. Harris’s plan aims to address these challenges head-on as she seeks to gain traction with voters ahead of the next election.