Opportunity, Compassion, Unity: America’s Way Forward With Kamala Harris

By Dr. Suresh U. Kumar

The U.S. Presidential election presents voters with a choice between two distinct visions for the nation’s future. Over the past eight years, Americans have had the opportunity to witness firsthand what each candidate represents. Vice President Kamala Harris and Governor Tim Walz champion a progressive vision they call the New Way Forward, built on compassion, opportunity, and economic empowerment for working families. In stark contrast, former President Donald Trump and Senator J.D. Vance embody a vision centered on grievance politics, an exclusive approach to economic power, and a disregard for democratic norms. Yet, according to recent reports, polls remain deadlocked. I find this hard to believe—let me explain why.

Kamala’s Story of Compassion and Resilience
For Kamala Harris, this election is about more than policy differences; it’s personal. As the daughter of Indian and Jamaican immigrants, she brings a unique perspective of resilience and opportunity that few can match. Her immigrant roots have given her a profound commitment to an “Opportunity Economy,” where everyone has a fair shot at success.

Harris’s journey is steeped in values learned from her family. Watching her mother, Shyamala—a scientist from India—navigate an often unwelcoming system while supporting her family and participating in the Civil Rights Movement, Harris was instilled with the importance of justice, compassion, and perseverance. From her father, an immigrant from Jamaica, she learned the values of education and integrity. These influences shaped her path as a public servant and her vision for a fairer, more inclusive America.

Strengthening Small Businesses and Expanding Economic Opportunity
Harris’s Opportunity Economy plan focuses on helping small businesses flourish while ensuring middle-class families thrive. By expanding the startup expense deduction from $5,000 to $50,000, Harris aims to empower entrepreneurs to launch businesses without overwhelming costs. To support established small businesses, she proposes accessible low- and no-interest loans and venture capital opportunities to spur innovation in underserved communities, aiming for 25 million new business applications in her first term. Harris’s policies reflect her understanding of the hard work and dedication small business ownership demands.

A Fairer Tax System and Support for the Middle Class
As Vice President, Harris has prioritized cost reductions for everyday Americans. Her Opportunity Economy plan includes tax cuts for over 100 million Americans, designed to relieve financial pressures on middle-class families. By adjusting tax rates for the wealthiest individuals and corporations, Harris aims to ensure they contribute their fair share, aligning economic growth with a vision that benefits all Americans—not only those at the top.

Affordable Housing, Groceries, and Healthcare for All
Harris’s understanding of financial challenges faced by working families informs her commitment to lowering costs for essentials like groceries and healthcare. Her affordable housing plan will add three million rental and affordable homes through builder tax credits and provide down payment assistance for first-time homebuyers. Harris’s policies make homeownership and financial stability attainable for millions, embodying the American Dream.

Preserving Rights, Uniting the Nation
Harris’s leadership underscores her commitment to defending Americans’ rights. From her time as District Attorney and Attorney General to her role as Vice President, she has worked tirelessly to expand healthcare access, protect reproductive freedoms, and promote social justice. In contrast, Trump’s Project 2025 represents a retreat into policies that threaten economic security and compromise democratic values. His proposed tariffs would cost American families thousands annually, while cuts to Social Security and Medicare would endanger the stability of retirees and the disabled.

A Legacy of Compassionate Leadership and Family Values
Kamala Harris’s life is one of resilience, sacrifice, and compassion. As a daughter, stepmother, and Vice President, she has balanced her family responsibilities and public service, giving her a deep understanding of what American families need to thrive. Her dedication to justice and social welfare continues to define her leadership.

The Closing Argument: Character Still Matters
In this election, the stakes go beyond policies; they reflect the values we hold as a nation. Kamala Harris’s dedication to “The People” is a testament to her integrity. Her life of service and her commitment to justice and opportunity make her uniquely qualified to lead. The New Way Forward she envisions is rooted in compassion, fairness, and unity. She has the track record, the vision, and the commitment to restore the American Dream and bring the nation together.

(Kumar is an author, professor, and co-founder of Indian Americans for Harris. He also serves as co-chair of the Harris-Walz Small Business Council.)