Vice President Kamala Harris participated in a town hall with Univision in Las Vegas, where she addressed pressing issues such as immigration, the economy, and healthcare. The event was crucial as polls indicate that these topics are of utmost importance to the Latino voting bloc. Many of the questions posed to Harris came from individuals with personal and emotional stories to share.
One of the topics discussed during the town hall was Harris’s support for “Dreamers,” undocumented immigrants brought into the country as children. Jesus Aispuro, a first-time voter from California, expressed his concerns about protecting Dreamers under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. In response, Harris emphasized the need for an immigration plan that establishes a pathway to citizenship for these individuals. She also issued a statement affirming her commitment to standing with Dreamers and keeping families together.
Another attendee, Yvette Castillo, shared a personal story about her mother’s struggles to acquire U.S. citizenship before her passing. Harris expressed her condolences and highlighted the bipartisan border bill that former President Donald Trump opposed, which could have provided a pathway to citizenship for hard-working individuals like Castillo’s mother. Harris emphasized the importance of enacting legislation that prioritizes solutions over politics to prevent further suffering.
The Latino vote holds significant importance for Harris’s political future, with polling indicating a more competitive race compared to the 2020 election. Despite holding an 18-point advantage over former President Trump, Harris recognizes the need to engage with undecided Latino voters through events like town halls in key states like Arizona.
During the town hall, Harris also criticized Trump for his actions during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly reports that he sent COVID tests to Russian President Vladimir Putin. She underscored the importance of addressing the disproportionate impact of the pandemic on Latino and Black Americans, highlighting her efforts to combat the crisis alongside President Biden.
When asked to name three virtues of Trump, Harris acknowledged his love for his family but declined to provide further commentary, citing limited personal interaction with him. The discussion also touched on the response to Hurricane Milton, with Harris addressing concerns about federal support and emphasizing the need to avoid politicizing natural disasters.
On the topics of the economy and healthcare, Harris pledged to address rising costs and provide assistance to middle-class families. She outlined plans to combat price gouging, offer tax credits for parents, and assist first-time homebuyers. Additionally, Harris addressed the challenges faced by disabled citizens in accessing insurance through Social Security, promising to advocate for equal access to essential services.
Overall, the town hall provided a platform for Harris to engage with voters on critical issues affecting the Latino community and beyond. Her responses reflected a commitment to addressing the concerns and needs of diverse populations, emphasizing the importance of unity and progress in shaping a better future for all Americans.
