During the recent debate, Harris and Trump highlighted their distinct economic policies addressing trade with China. Both candidates addressed tariffs and their impact on US consumers, aiming to present the most effective approach in the ongoing political rivalry.

Trump's Tariff Strategy on Chinese Goods

During the debate, Donald Trump emphasized his plan to maintain high tariffs on Chinese imports. With proposed tariffs that could reach over 60%, he argues this will protect American jobs and industries. Despite criticism regarding consumer prices, Trump believes his strategy is essential for economic growth.

Harris's Focused Approach to Trade Policy

Vice President Kamala Harris advocates for a more nuanced strategy concerning trade with China. Instead of broad tariffs, she proposes targeted measures that protect U.S. interests and involve international collaboration. Harris aims to ensure that critical sectors like technology remain competitive.

Comparing Domestic Economic Policies: Harris vs Trump

The candidates' domestic policies starkly contrast in supporting economic growth and assisting everyday citizens. Harris promotes plans to support the middle class and increase taxes on the wealthy, while Trump seeks to extend tax cuts for billionaires. This divergence showcases the broader economic ideologies shaping their campaigns.

In the latest debate focused on economic policies, Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump put forth their contrasting strategies regarding trade with China and the overall economic future of America. Trump reaffirmed his commitment to continuing the tariffs he imposed during his presidency. He plans to apply blanket tariffs ranging from 10% to 20% on all imports to bolster locally made products. He proposed even steeper tariffs—over 60%—specifically targeting Chinese goods, arguing this protectionist policy is necessary to support American jobs and industries. Harris, on the other hand, while not fully endorsing a free trade stance, advocates for more targeted measures designed to protect core U.S. interests. Her policy perspective reflects a continuation of the Biden administration's approach, which includes the strategic imposition of tariffs on Chinese electric vehicle imports and export restrictions on semiconductor technology. She emphasizes the necessity of preventing China from gaining a competitive technological edge in vital sectors, particularly amid the transition to electric vehicles. Shifting focus to domestic economic policies, both candidates expressed commitments to improving the economic standing of ordinary American citizens. Harris aims to provide substantial support to the middle class, proposing initiatives like $25,000 in down payment assistance for first-time homebuyers and increasing the child tax credit for families with infants. In stark contrast, Trump's agenda centers around massive tax cuts for the wealthy, extending the 2017 tax cuts, and significantly lowering corporate tax rates, which he argues would enhance economic growth. Each candidate's proposal illustrates a fundamental divergence in their economic philosophies, creating critical considerations for voters ahead of the upcoming elections.