Op/Ed: Harris leadership — fiscally responsible and environmentally sustainable

By Erica Deuso, Special to The Times

Erica Deuso

Vice President Kamala Harris serves as a beacon of hope and resilience, leading transformative change for America amid pressing environmental and economic challenges. In this critical election cycle, the stakes have never been higher for the health of our planet and the financial security of American families. With a balanced, inclusive approach, Harris bridges divides and drives meaningful solutions, keeping both the future of our environment and the prosperity of all Americans at the forefront.

Climate Progress

The Biden-Harris administration’s Inflation Reduction Act, empowered by Harris’s decisive tie-breaking Senate vote, has delivered over $1 billion in clean energy investments to Pennsylvania. This influx has created thousands of high-paying, union-supported jobs, positioning clean energy as the backbone of Pennsylvania’s manufacturing future—a future Harris is committed to defending.

This election centers on preserving Earth, our most essential resource, which is directly tied to economic stability. Our continued dependence on fossil fuels has severe, long-term effects, illustrated by the catastrophic $50 billion cost of Hurricane Milton. Such a burden falls not only on taxpayers but also exacts an immense human toll.

In stark contrast, Donald Trump has consistently opposed climate action, dismissing climate change as a “hoax” and withdrawing the U.S. from the Paris Climate Agreement. Supported by big oil executives—his fourth-largest donor group—Trump’s policies favor corporate interests over environmental protection. Another Trump presidency would enable these corporations to continue exploiting our planet at an even greater cost.

Building an Opportunity Economy

Vice President Harris has been a strong supporter of financial security for working and middle-class Americans. She prioritizes strengthening unions and protecting workers’ economic well-being, as shown by her support for the PRO Act. Her economic plan includes tax cuts for middle-class families, with estimates from the CRFC showing that these changes would bring in more revenue than they would cost, reflecting her commitment to responsible spending.

In contrast, the impact of Trump’s economic policies has been costly. A Yale Budget Lab study found that Trump’s tariffs would cost American households an average of $7,600 and reduce the GDP by 1.4%. The Wharton Budget Model also projects a $5.8 trillion loss in revenue over the next decade because of his tax cuts.

Inclusive Leadership

Vice President Harris is dedicated to leading a country that represents all Americans by pushing for fair, balanced policies that create equal opportunities for everyone. Her commitment has even earned bipartisan support, with endorsements from figures like former Vice President Dick Cheney and 200 former Republican presidential staff members.

Harris exemplifies true servant leadership, working across party lines to find solutions for national issues. Her efforts to bridge divides—especially in critical areas like infrastructure and economic growth—show her dedication to helping communities thrive and uniting Americans around shared values and progress.

Erica Deuso is an MBA graduate from Drexel University and a proud resident of Downingtown. She is passionate about the intersectionality of strong leadership, economic growth, and environmental stewardship.