Trump skips Illinois loyalty oath promising not to overthrow government
Washington PostAUG 2023
Trump Pledges 'Manufacturing Renaissance'
Above: Former US Pres. Donald Trump speaks at a campaign event on food security in a barn on the Smith Family Farm on Sept. 23, 2024 in Smithton, Pennsylvania. Image copyright: Jeff Swensen/Stringer/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Spin
Republican narrative
Trump's economic proposals resonate with voters as the election nears, giving him a significant edge over Kamala Harris in the polls. His approach had previously led to record-low unemployment, increased wages, and reduced poverty. In contrast, Harris' economic policies are associated with inflation and lower living standards, and she's now left proposing alternative solutions. Trump's commitment to bringing back manufacturing will undo decades of failed neoliberal policies and empower American workers.
Democratic narrative
Trump's bold promises aside, the US lost 2.7M jobs overall, including 154K in manufacturing, during his tenure. Rust Belt factories shut down even as his tax cuts, touted as job creators, benefited corporations and the wealthy. Workers who once backed him were left feeling betrayed. Kamala Harris' polling on her economic policies in fact shows that she's gaining momentum with the American people — from Wall Street to Main Street, Harris will help steer the US to greater prosperity.