As the 2024 U.S. presidential election nears, both former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris have been making promises to voters about their plans to improve the country. Their campaign pledges focus on various key areas, including climate, foreign policy, social issues, health care, and taxes.
While some of these promises could be enacted through executive orders, many would require congressional approval.
Here are some of the key promises from both candidates.
Trump's Campaign Promises:
End the War in Ukraine Before Inauguration Day
Trump has consistently promised to end Russia's war on Ukraine before he is even inaugurated. In the September presidential debate, he said, "That is a war that's dying to be settled. I will get it settled before I even become president." He has not provided specific details on how he would achieve this.
Mass Deportation
Trump has vowed to carry out the "largest deportation" effort in U.S. history, focusing on illegal criminals, drug dealers, and human traffickers. He has indicated plans to begin in Aurora, Colorado, and Springfield, Ohio.
Cut Federal Funding for Schools Teaching Critical Race Theory and Transgender Matters
Trump aims to cut federal funding to schools that teach what he calls "critical race theory" and "transgender insanity." He previously revoked Obama-era protections that allowed transgender students to use restrooms aligned with their gender identity.
Roll Back Biden’s Electric Vehicle Goals
Trump has criticized President Biden's push for electric vehicles and has promised to undo any rules related to this effort. While Biden has not issued a direct mandate, he has been encouraging the adoption of electric vehicles, aiming for 50% of new vehicles to be zero-emission by 2030.
End Taxes on Tips
Trump has promised to eliminate federal taxes on tips, a proposal that would require congressional approval. This plan could cost up to $250 billion, according to estimates.
Stop Taxes on Social Security Income
Trump has pledged to eliminate federal income taxes on Social Security benefits for seniors, a move that would also need congressional approval. Currently, about 40% of recipients pay taxes on their benefits if their income exceeds certain thresholds.
Replace Obamacare
Trump has renewed his campaign promise to replace the Affordable Care Act, although he has not provided specifics on what the replacement would look like.
Expand the Child Tax Credit
Trump has proposed increasing the child tax credit to $5,000 per child, up from the current $2,000. This would also require approval from Congress.
Harris' Campaign Promises:
Take on Pharmaceutical Companies
Harris has committed to continuing the Biden administration's efforts to lower prescription drug prices, particularly for Medicare beneficiaries. The Inflation Reduction Act, passed in 2022, enabled Medicare to negotiate drug prices, a process Harris aims to expand.
Ban Price Gouging on Groceries
Harris has expressed a desire to eliminate price gouging in grocery stores. While she hasn’t provided specific plans, economists agree that increasing competition in the food industry could help curb rising prices.
Expand the Child Tax Credit
Harris has proposed raising the child tax credit to $6,000 for newborns, surpassing Trump’s proposal. Like Trump’s plan, this would need congressional backing.
Nominate a Republican to Her Cabinet
Harris has also promised to include a Republican in her Cabinet, distinguishing her from President Biden, whose Cabinet does not include any Republicans.