Presidential Election 2024

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The prioritization of issues for voters in the 2024 U.S. presidential election depends on political affiliation and broader public sentiment. However, based on polling and analysis, the following represents a general prioritization, starting with the most pressing issues:

1. Economy and Inflation

Top Priority: The economy remains the leading concern across political lines. Inflation, job security, and government spending remain at the forefront of voter concerns, especially with high prices and interest rates impacting daily lives. Voters tend to favor Trump’s approach to economic recovery, particularly tax policies and deregulation, but Harris has focused on promoting equitable economic growth(EY US)(Pew Research Center).
During Trump’s presidency, inflation was not a significant concern, with the rate averaging around 1.8% annually, well below the Federal Reserve’s target of 2%. Trump’s primary policies, such as tax cuts and deregulation, focused on growth rather than controlling inflation. His fiscal policies, particularly the TCJA and COVID-19 stimulus, could contribute to inflationary pressures later, but these were mostly felt after his term ended. In areas like supply chain management and fiscal discipline, the effects of his policies on inflation were more mixed, with tariffs and high deficit spending posing potential inflation risks.
Overall, Trump’s presidency didn’t aggressively focus on limiting inflation, as inflation rates were already low. However, the groundwork laid by some policies (tax cuts, tariffs, and stimulus) contributed to inflationary trends post-2021(Brookings)(Reuters).
Donald Trump inherited low inflation rates, right? This means that Trump’s bragging about lowering inflation should be credited to the Obama presidency following the 2008 financial debacle!
Yes, Donald Trump did inherit relatively low inflation rates when he took office in January 2017. At the time, inflation in the U.S. was around 2.1%, close to the Federal Reserve’s target of 2%. This low and stable inflation largely continued the economic recovery following the 2008 financial crisis, with inflation remaining subdued throughout most of President Barack Obama’s second term.
Here are some key points about the state of inflation when Trump took office:
Stable Inflation: Inflation had been below the Federal Reserve’s target of 2% for several years prior to Trump’s presidency, with global deflationary pressures, low oil prices, and technological advancements all contributing to the subdued inflation rates.
Economic Expansion: The U.S. economy was in the midst of a long expansion following the Great Recession, with slow but steady GDP growth and low inflation being key features of the period(Brookings)(EY US).
During Trump’s presidency, inflation remained relatively low, averaging about 1.8% per year. It wasn’t until after the COVID-19 pandemic and the large fiscal stimulus efforts, including the response measures initiated during his presidency, that inflationary pressures started to build up significantly in 2021(
Brookings
).

2. Immigration

Highly Prioritized, Especially for Republicans: Immigration has surged as a critical issue, particularly among Republican voters. Trump’s promises of strict border control and mass deportations resonate with his base, while Harris takes a more moderate stance. Immigration ranks as one of the highest concerns for voters, especially with ongoing debates about border security and asylum policies(Pew Research Center)(Brookings).
Policy Shifts and Responses
Trump Administration: Focused on border security, emphasizing building a wall, restricting asylum, and implementing policies like “Remain in Mexico,” which required asylum seekers to wait in Mexico for their court dates.
Biden Administration: Took steps to reverse some of the previous administration’s policies, such as ending the “Remain in Mexico” policy and halting wall construction. This has led to criticism from some who argue that these actions have increased illegal crossings.
My opinion is that no one should be let into this country without fully completing ALL of the steps put in place to make sure the American people are not subjected to criminals and those intent on harming US citizens and our country. Legislation that reduces the effectiveness of the process should be eliminated.

3. Abortion and Reproductive Rights

Key Issue for Democrats: Abortion rights became a focal point after the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade. It ranks high for Democratic voters, with Harris advocating for federal protection of abortion rights. While it’s less of a priority for Trump supporters, it remains a polarizing issue that could mobilize significant portions of the electorate(Pew Research Center)(Brookings).

4. National Security and Foreign Policy

Growing Concern Due to Global Tensions: With the ongoing war in Ukraine and rising tensions with China, national security has become a critical issue. Trump favors reducing U.S. involvement abroad, while Harris promotes maintaining solid alliances and global engagement. While not as personal as economic concerns, this issue affects voters worried about America’s global standing and security(Fletcher School)(Brookings).

5. Climate and Energy

More Important for Democrats: Climate change and energy policy are more of a priority for Democratic voters, with Harris continuing Biden’s push for clean energy and climate action. On the other hand, Trump’s supporters are more focused on energy independence through traditional fossil fuels, making this issue highly divisive along party lines(EY US)(Reuters).

This prioritization reflects the key concerns of voters as of late 2024, though individual priorities will vary based on party affiliation and personal circumstances. Economic issues tend to transcend partisan divides, while immigration, abortion, and climate policies are more polarized.

Starting with “Economy and Inflation,” what should be done in priority order?

When tackling the economy and inflation as a priority in the U.S., here’s a suggested approach in order of importance, based on expert recommendations and past policy effects:

1. Tackling Inflation

Monetary Policy: The Federal Reserve has been raising interest rates to control inflation, which helps cool down demand by making borrowing more expensive. This approach needs to continue cautiously to avoid stifling economic growth. At the same time, addressing supply chain disruptions and encouraging domestic production can help ease price pressures on goods. (EY US)(Brookings).
Cost of Living: Policies to lower costs for essential goods, such as energy and food, are critical. Short-term solutions, like temporary price controls or subsidies, may help, but long-term strategies should focus on boosting production and efficiency in these sectors(EY US).

2. Job Creation and Wages

Support for Small Businesses: Small and medium-sized businesses drive much of job creation. Providing tax incentives, reducing regulatory barriers, and improving access to capital can help stimulate hiring(EY US)(Brookings).
Wage Growth: Raising wages, especially in industries that have seen stagnation, would help improve the standard of living. Encouraging collective bargaining and ensuring companies pay a fair salary can help workers keep pace with inflation(Brookings).

3. Addressing Income Inequality

Progressive Taxation: Harris has proposed raising taxes on corporations and high-income individuals to address income inequality. This could help fund public services and social programs to level the playing field. Meanwhile, Trump promised to extend his previous tax cuts, focusing more on stimulating overall economic growth, but this may increase income disparity(EY US)(Reuters).
Targeted Social Programs: Expanding healthcare access, housing subsidies, and educational opportunities for lower-income families would provide safety nets, reducing the strain caused by inflation and economic uncertainty(EY US)(Pew Research Center).

4. Promoting Long-term Economic Growth

Investing in Infrastructure: Improving infrastructure—transportation, energy grids, and broadband—creates jobs and enhances long-term economic efficiency. This has been a priority for the Biden-Harris administration, and ongoing investments can ensure long-term benefits(Reuters)(EY US).
Encouraging Innovation and Technology: Investing in emerging sectors, such as artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and biotech, will help create high-paying jobs and keep the U.S. competitive globally. This requires focusing on education, research, and development(Brookings).

5. Reforming Trade and Supply Chains

Strengthening Domestic Supply Chains: The pandemic exposed vulnerabilities in global supply chains. Policies that encourage onshoring key industries, such as semiconductor production, can reduce dependency on foreign markets and create jobs at home(EY US)(Pew Research Center).
Balancing Trade Policies: Both Harris and Trump advocate for policies that prioritize American manufacturing, but their methods differ. Maintaining balanced trade policies while fostering global trade relationships is essential for stable growth(Brookings).