In recent years, Puerto Rico has faced a myriad of challenges, from devastating hurricanes to economic struggles exacerbated by political neglect. Amidst this backdrop, Vice President Kamala Harris has emerged as a beacon of hope for the island, contrasting sharply with the abandonment and disrespect shown by former President Donald Trump.
Harris’s commitment to Puerto Rico is evident in her proactive approach to rebuilding the island’s infrastructure and economy. Following the catastrophic impact of Hurricane Maria, which left thousands without power and basic necessities, Harris has been a staunch advocate for equitable disaster relief. She has worked alongside President Biden to unlock billions in funding that had been previously withheld, ensuring that Puerto Ricans receive the support they desperately need. This funding is not just a lifeline; it represents a commitment to modernizing the electrical grid, enhancing healthcare systems and investing in economic development programs that will uplift the island’s residents.
In stark contrast, Trump’s tenure was marked by a series of disparaging remarks about Puerto Rico and its people. He infamously referred to the island as “dirty” and “poor,” suggesting at one point that it could be traded for Greenland. His administration’s response to Hurricane Maria was widely criticized for its inadequacy, with reports indicating that he blocked billions in much-needed aid. Instead of offering genuine support, Trump’s visits to the island were characterized by superficial gestures, such as tossing paper towels to a crowd, which only served to highlight his lack of understanding and empathy for the struggles faced by Puerto Ricans.
Harris seeks to revitalize the island’s economy and infrastructure
Harris’s vision for Puerto Rico includes the establishment of a Puerto Rico Opportunity Economy Task Force, aimed at fostering a comprehensive approach to economic revitalization. This task force will focus on rebuilding the island’s economic strength, supporting small businesses and investing in industries of the future, such as clean energy and biosciences. By streamlining federal processes and cutting red tape, Harris aims to expedite disaster recovery projects and create a resilient energy grid that can withstand future storms.
Moreover, Harris recognizes the importance of education and workforce development in shaping Puerto Rico’s future. She has proposed expanding access to high-quality bilingual education and STEM programs, ensuring that the next generation of Puerto Ricans is equipped with the skills necessary to compete in a global economy. By fostering partnerships between high schools, local businesses and higher education institutions, Harris aims to create pathways for students to secure good-paying jobs right out of school.
In her recent campaign closing speech, Harris outlined a sharp contrast between her values and Trump’s approach to governance. She stated that Donald Trump’s main priority in a second term would be to target and prosecute those he views as “enemies,” saying, “Donald Trump has a list of people he wants to prosecute.” She also pointed out that Trump has made it a top priority to “grant freedom to violent extremists who attacked law enforcement on January 6.” Harris reminded Americans that Trump aims to use the military against fellow citizens who simply disagree with him, referring to them as “the internal enemy.”
She went on to say that Trump is someone who is “unstable, obsessed with vengeance, consumed by grievance, and in pursuit of unchecked power.” In Harris’s words, “He’s spent over a decade keeping Americans divided and afraid of each other. That’s who he is.”
In addition to educational initiatives, Harris is committed to enhancing access to banking and lending for Puerto Rican entrepreneurs. Her plan includes providing forgivable loans to those who have historically faced barriers to starting or growing their businesses. This financial support is crucial for empowering local entrepreneurs and stimulating economic growth on the island. By working with community banks and development financial institutions, Harris seeks to create an environment where small businesses can thrive, ultimately leading to job creation and increased economic stability.
Trump’s legacy: a different approach
The stark contrast between Harris’s approach and Trump’s legacy could not be more pronounced. While Harris actively seeks to engage with Puerto Rican communities and address their needs, Trump’s administration often turned a blind eye to the island’s struggles. His dismissive comments and lack of substantial action left many Puerto Ricans feeling abandoned and disrespected.
Harris emphasized her commitment to bridging these divides, assuring Americans, “I am here tonight to tell you: he is not who we are.” She urged for a future free from the chaos and division that Trump represents, noting, «We know what Donald Trump has in mind: more chaos, more division, and policies that help those at the top while harming everyone else.”
As Puerto Rico stands at a crossroads, the leadership of Kamala Harris offers a renewed sense of hope and possibility. Her commitment to investing in the island’s infrastructure, education and economy reflects a deep understanding of the challenges faced by its residents. By prioritizing equitable support and fostering a collaborative approach, Harris is not only working to rebuild Puerto Rico but also to empower its people to realize their dreams and aspirations.
To Americans, Harris committed to seeking common ground and pragmatic solutions that would improve lives, not to score political points but to ensure progress. She assured voters, “I pledge to listen to the experts, to those who will be affected by my decisions, and to those who disagree with me.” Harris emphasized that, unlike Trump, she does not see dissenters as enemies, promising, “He wants to jail them; I will give them a place at my table.”
Harris vowed to be a president for all Americans, placing the country above party or personal ambition. In her words, “I pledge to always put country above party and above myself.”
The future of Puerto Rico looks brighter under the leadership of Vice President Kamala Harris, who contrasts sharply with the neglect shown by Donald Trump. As the island continues to recover and rebuild, the commitment to creating an Opportunity Economy will be pivotal in ensuring that Puerto Ricans can thrive and succeed in the years to come. Harris’s vision is one of empowerment, resilience, and hope—a stark departure from the past and a promising path forward for the people of Puerto Rico.
