When asked about her initial actions in her first interview as the Democratic presidential nominee, Vice President Kamala Harris said she would begin rolling out her plan for an “opportunity” economy from day one in office.
“Well, there are a couple of things. First of all, I would say one of my top priorities is doing what I can to support and strengthen the middle class,” Harris, 59, told CNN's Dana Bash.
“When I look at the aspirations, goals, and ambitions of the American people, I believe that hope and optimism have fueled generations of Americans — and that people are ready for a new way forward,” she began.
“Sadly, I think that over the last decade, the former president has been someone who has really promoted policies and an environment that has weakened our character and our strength as Americans and has divided our country. And I think the public is ready to move away from that.”
Returning to the question, Harris said, “Day one will be focused on implementing what I call the Opportunity Economy plan. And in that regard, I've already laid out some proposals, including what we'll do to lower the prices of everyday goods, what we'll do to invest in American small businesses, what we'll do to invest in families.”
She gave specific examples where legislation would be needed.
“For example, we're extending the child tax credit for families to $6,000 for the first year after a child is born, and we're helping them buy car seats, baby clothes, cribs. We have the work to invest in American families around affordable housing, which is a big issue in our country right now. So there's a lot happening starting on Day One,” she said.
Other presidents have also begun their first days in office with executive orders.
On his first day in office in 2021, President Biden signed 17 executive orders, including halting construction of former President Donald Trump's wall on the U.S.-Mexico border.
This is an ongoing story…
