In a revealing conversation on the floor of the Democratic National Convention, Rep. Nydia Velazquez (D-NY) provided a glimpse into what a Kamala Harris presidency might prioritize, placing a heavy emphasis on international issues such as Ukraine and the Middle East. Velazquez’s comments come at a time when many Americans are questioning the current administration’s focus on global affairs over pressing domestic issues.
Speaking with Breitbart News just before the convention's second night kicked off at Chicago's United Center, Velazquez highlighted what she believes will be Harris’s top priorities if she becomes president. “First, to deal with current events in the world, such as Ukraine and the Middle East. And also the economy,” Velazquez stated, suggesting that Harris would continue the Biden administration’s strategy of prioritizing international conflicts over domestic concerns.
This focus on foreign affairs, particularly Ukraine, has been a contentious issue among voters. Many Americans feel that the billions of dollars sent overseas to support Ukraine could be better spent addressing critical issues at home, such as inflation, crime, and border security. Velazquez’s remarks indicate that a Harris presidency would likely continue this trend, potentially alienating voters who are more concerned with the state of the U.S. economy and domestic policies.
Velazquez also praised the economic performance under Biden and Harris, claiming that the economy is growing and that inflation is “the lowest among industrialized economies.” However, many conservatives would argue that these claims are out of touch with the reality that most Americans are experiencing. Despite Velazquez’s optimistic portrayal, the fact remains that inflation has eroded the purchasing power of millions of families, with rising costs for basic goods and services continuing to strain household budgets.
While Velazquez asserts that Harris has a new proposal to address the economy, skeptics are left wondering whether this plan will do anything to reverse the damage already done. Under the current administration, Americans have seen prices for everything from groceries to gas skyrocket, with little relief in sight. The prospect of more of the same economic policies under a Harris administration is unlikely to inspire confidence among those who are struggling to make ends meet.
In a strikingly dismissive tone, Velazquez brushed off concerns about Hispanic voters moving toward the Republican Party, calling it “old news.” She confidently claimed that “Latinos are moving toward Kamala Harris,” despite recent polls suggesting otherwise. The fact is that the Democratic Party has seen a noticeable shift in support among Hispanic voters, with more of them aligning with conservative values, particularly on issues like family, faith, and the economy.
Velazquez’s dismissal of this trend may indicate a broader disconnect between Democratic leadership and the Hispanic community’s evolving priorities. While Democrats continue to rely on identity politics, the reality is that Hispanic voters, like all voters, are increasingly focused on the issues that directly impact their daily lives—issues where the Biden-Harris administration has largely failed to deliver.
Finally, Velazquez suggested that there is newfound enthusiasm for Harris because she had “never been given the opportunity to reach people before.” However, this narrative appears forced, considering Harris’s lackluster performance during the 2019-2020 Democratic primary, where she failed to gain significant traction with voters. Despite being elevated to the vice presidency, Harris’s approval ratings have remained consistently low, raising questions about whether the Democratic base is genuinely excited about her potential candidacy.
Velazquez’s insistence that Harris will lead an “inclusive administration” with “great ideas” may resonate with party loyalists, but for the broader electorate, the focus will likely remain on tangible results rather than rhetoric. As the 2024 election approaches, Democrats will need more than empty promises and recycled talking points to win over skeptical voters. Whether Kamala Harris can deliver on the expectations being set by her supporters like Velazquez remains to be seen.
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