Opportunity, Compassion, Unity: America’s Way Forward with Kamala Harris

Dr. Suresh U. Kumar

The US presidential election presents voters with a choice between two different visions for the country’s future. Over the past eight years, Americans have had the opportunity to see first-hand what each candidate represents. Vice President Kamala Harris and Gov. Tim Walz are championing a progressive vision they call A New Way Forwardrooted in compassion, opportunity, and economic empowerment for working families. In contrast, former President Donald Trump and Senator J.D. Vance embody a vision based on the politics of grievance, an exclusive approach to economic power, and a disregard for democratic norms. However, according to recent reports, opinion polls remain at a deadlock. I find this hard to believe – let me explain why.

Kamala’s story of compassion and resilience
For Kamala Harris, this election is about more than just political differences; it’s personal. As the daughter of Indian and Jamaican immigrants, she brings a unique perspective on resilience and opportunity that few can match. Her immigrant roots have given her a deep commitment to the “opportunity economy,” where everyone has a chance to succeed.

Harris’ path is based on the values ​​learned by her family. Watching her mother, Shyamala, a scientist from India, navigate an often unfriendly system while supporting her family and participating in the Civil Rights Movement, Harris learned the importance of justice, compassion and perseverance. From her father, a Jamaican immigrant, she learned the values ​​of education and honesty. These influences shaped her path as a public servant and her vision for a more just and inclusive America.

Strengthening small businesses and expanding economic opportunity
Harris Economics of Opportunity The plan aims to help small businesses prosper while ensuring middle-class families prosper. By increasing the startup expense deduction from $5,000 to $50,000, Harris aims to give entrepreneurs the opportunity to launch a business without breaking the bank. To support existing small businesses, it offers affordable, low- and no-interest loans and venture capital opportunities to spur innovation in underserved communities, aiming to submit 25 million new business applications in its first term. Harris’ policies reflect her understanding of the hard work and dedication it takes to be a small business owner.

A fairer tax system and support for the middle class
As vice president, Harris prioritized lowering costs for everyday Americans. Her Economics of Opportunity The plan includes tax cuts for more than 100 million Americans, designed to ease financial pressure on middle-class families. By adjusting tax rates for the wealthiest individuals and corporations, Harris aims to ensure they pay their fair share by aligning economic growth with a vision that benefits all Americans, not just those at the top.

Affordable housing, food and healthcare for all
Harris’s understanding of the financial challenges facing working families underscores her commitment to lowering costs on essentials such as food and health care. Her affordable housing plan would add three million rental and affordable homes through tax breaks for developers and provide down payment assistance for first-time homebuyers. Harris’ policies make homeownership and financial stability within reach of millions of people, realizing the American Dream.

Preserving Rights, Uniting the Nation
Harris’ leadership underscores her commitment to protecting the rights of Americans. From her time as district attorney and attorney general to her position as vice president, she worked tirelessly to expand access to health care, protect reproductive freedoms, and advance social justice. On the contrary, Trump Project 2025 represents a rollback to policies that threaten economic security and threaten democratic values. His proposed tariffs would cost American families thousands of dollars annually, and cuts to Social Security and Medicare would threaten the stability of retirees and the disabled.

A Legacy of Compassionate Leadership and Family Values
Kamala Harris’ life is one of resilience, sacrifice and compassion. As a daughter, stepmother and vice president, she juggled family responsibilities and public service, giving her a deep understanding of what American families need to thrive. Her dedication to justice and social welfare continues to define her leadership.

Final argument: character still matters
The stakes in this election go beyond politics; they reflect the values ​​we hold as a nation. Kamala Harris’ dedication to “The People” is a testament to her integrity. Her life of service experience and her commitment to justice and opportunity make her uniquely suited for leadership. A New Way Forward in her opinion, is rooted in compassion, justice and unity. She has the track record, the vision and the passion to restore the American Dream and unite the nation.

(Kumar is an author, professor and co-founder of Harris Americans Indian. He is also co-chair of the Harris-Walz Small Business Council.)