Washington, Aug 27: Vice President Kamala Harris has launched a new ad campaign emphasizing her proposal to build 3 million new homes over the next four years, aimed at mitigating inflation and contrasting with Republican Donald Trump’s policies.
The ad, released Tuesday, highlights Harrisās personal journey from renting to homeownership, reflecting her commitment to addressing the current housing crisis. The campaign is targeting swing states such as Arizona and Nevada, and will feature 20 housing-focused events this week.
Harrisās plan includes providing up to $25,000 in assistance to first-time homebuyers and implementing tax incentives for builders focusing on new homes and rental properties. The plan also proposes doubling funding to $40 billion to help local governments ease zoning restrictions that limit housing supply.
With shelter costs rising 5.1% over the past year, outpacing the 2.9% increase in overall inflation, Harrisās campaign argues that her approach is critical. Dan Kanninen, the campaignās battleground states director, emphasized Harrisās dedication to solving the housing shortage and addressing rent hikes by corporate landlords and Wall Street banks.
In contrast, former President Trump, known for his real estate background, has faced criticism for his handling of housing shortages during his tenure. Trumpās proposals include stopping illegal immigration to reduce housing demand and opening federal land for new construction. He has criticized Harrisās plan as financially impractical, alleging that it would support immigrants without legal status, a claim lacking clear evidence.
Trumpās campaign has branded Harrisās policies as ineffective, with National Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt accusing her approach of failing to make homeownership more attainable. Trump has also dismissed efforts to increase apartment and condominium construction as a āMarxistā attack on suburban property values.
Harrisās campaign will continue its push with housing affordability events scheduled in Harrisburg, Philadelphia, and Pittsburgh in Pennsylvania; Phoenix and Tucson in Arizona; Las Vegas and Reno in Nevada; Asheville and Charlotte in North Carolina; and Savannah, Georgia.