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Trump’s Booming Economy vs. Biden’s Inflation Crisis – Trump or Harris has the better plan?

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Top 10 Economic Metrics for Comparing Biden and Trump

1. GDP Growth

  • Trump Year 3 (2019): The U.S. economy saw consistent growth with a 2.3% increase in GDP. Pre-COVID, Trump’s policies—particularly tax cuts and deregulation—were credited with stimulating economic expansion.
  • Biden Year 3 (2023): The GDP is recovering post-COVID but at a slower rate compared to Trump’s third year. Growth was around 2.1% amid inflation concerns and the Fed’s aggressive interest rate hikes.
  • Verdict: Trump performed better, as his year avoided inflation spikes and had steady growth without the high levels of economic uncertainty.

2. Inflation

  • Trump Year 3 (2019): Inflation was stable and low, consistently below 2%.
  • Biden Year 3 (2023): Inflation reached 40-year highs in 2022 before easing slightly in 2023. Although it has come down, it still remains elevated compared to pre-pandemic levels.
  • Verdict: Trump performed better with low inflation during his tenure.

3. Unemployment Rate

  • Trump Year 3 (2019): Unemployment was at a 50-year low of 3.5%. The tax cuts and regulatory rollbacks were credited with boosting business confidence and hiring.
  • Biden Year 3 (2023): Unemployment is relatively low at 3.8%, although there are concerns about labor force participation and the number of people working part-time for economic reasons.
  • Verdict: Trump performed better as his policies had led to historically low unemployment without inflation concerns.

4. Labor Force Participation

  • Trump Year 3 (2019): The labor force participation rate was 63.2%, showing signs of improvement after a decade of decline.
  • Biden Year 3 (2023): Participation has not fully rebounded post-pandemic and remains around 62.8%.
  • Verdict: Trump performed better in driving up labor force engagement.

5. Wage Growth

  • Trump Year 3 (2019): Real wages grew at a steady pace, with significant gains for lower-income workers.
  • Biden Year 3 (2023): While nominal wages have risen, inflation has eroded much of those gains, leading to stagnation in real wage growth.
  • Verdict: Trump performed better, as inflation didn’t undercut wage gains.

6. Stock Market Performance

  • Trump Year 3 (2019): The stock market experienced a robust bull run, with the S&P 500 gaining around 28.9%.
  • Biden Year 3 (2023): The market is volatile with concerns over rising interest rates, inflation, and a potential recession. S&P growth was around 7% YTD, below Trump’s third year.
  • Verdict: Trump performed better, with stronger investor confidence and returns.

7. Federal Debt and Deficit

  • Trump Year 3 (2019): The deficit rose to $984 billion due to the tax cuts and increased military spending, but overall debt-to-GDP was stable around 79%.
  • Biden Year 3 (2023): The national debt crossed $33 trillion, with higher deficits exacerbated by post-COVID spending, Ukraine aid, and domestic programs. Debt-to-GDP ratio is over 120%.
  • Verdict: Trump performed better in managing debt relative to GDP, though both faced challenges.

8. Energy Independence

  • Trump Year 3 (2019): The U.S. became a net exporter of energy for the first time in decades, driven by deregulation and support for fossil fuel industries.
  • Biden Year 3 (2023): Biden’s administration has emphasized green energy, leading to concerns over energy prices and domestic oil production. Energy independence has decreased.
  • Verdict: Trump performed better by bolstering energy independence through traditional energy sources.

9. Business Confidence and Investment

  • Trump Year 3 (2019): Business confidence was high, driven by corporate tax cuts and deregulation, which also boosted capital investment.
  • Biden Year 3 (2023): Business confidence is weaker, with concerns over higher taxes, inflation, and regulatory uncertainty, especially around environmental policy.
  • Verdict: Trump performed better due to his pro-business policies.

10. Trade Deficits

  • Trump Year 3 (2019): Despite his trade war with China, the overall trade deficit grew slightly. However, Trump’s tariffs were meant to protect American jobs, especially in manufacturing.
  • Biden Year 3 (2023): The trade deficit has widened further, though part of this is due to supply chain disruptions and post-COVID recovery dynamics.
  • Verdict: Neither performed exceptionally well, but Trump’s protectionist stance aimed at boosting domestic industry, while Biden’s policies haven’t stemmed the growing deficit.

Kamala Harris’s Economic Plans (if any)

As Vice President, Kamala Harris has focused largely on areas like healthcare, voting rights, and social justice, but there have been few specifics about her independent economic policies. However, as part of the Biden administration, Harris generally supports:

  1. Furthering Green Energy Initiatives: Harris backs investment in renewable energy as a key plank of the administration’s economic approach. She supports policies designed to move the U.S. away from fossil fuels, although these have met with criticism from conservatives over potential job losses in the energy sector.
  2. Expanded Childcare and Social Programs: Harris has been a strong advocate for programs aimed at improving childcare access and affordability, which she argues will allow more parents, particularly women, to participate in the workforce.
  3. Taxation: Harris supports Biden’s tax plan, which seeks to increase taxes on corporations and wealthier Americans. Critics argue this could hurt business investment and job creation.

In summary, Harris lacks a clearly articulated economic platform beyond her role in the Biden administration’s policies, which center on climate change and equity.

Trump’s Economic Plan for 2024

Donald Trump, seeking to return to the presidency, has outlined several key elements for his economic plan should he win the election in 2024:

  1. Tax Cuts 2.0: Trump has signaled his desire for another round of tax cuts, particularly aimed at middle-income Americans and businesses to drive investment, growth, and job creation.
  2. Deregulation: Trump has consistently advocated for reducing regulatory burdens on businesses, especially in industries like energy and manufacturing, to promote growth. He has been critical of Biden’s green energy policies, pledging to restore America’s energy dominance.
  3. America First Trade Policies: Trump would likely continue his “America First” trade policy, aiming to renegotiate trade deals and reduce the U.S. reliance on China. This could involve tariffs or other protectionist measures to strengthen domestic manufacturing.
  4. Cutting Government Spending: Trump has talked about addressing the national debt and deficit by reducing government spending, although specifics on which areas would face cuts are still unclear. His past approach focused more on growing the economy than making cuts.
  5. Energy Independence: Trump would push for renewed domestic fossil fuel production, cutting back on the Biden administration’s regulations on oil and gas to restore the U.S. as a net energy exporter.

In summary, Trump’s plan emphasizes tax cuts, deregulation, energy independence, and trade policies to drive economic growth, contrasting with Biden-Harris’s focus on green energy and social spending.

Conclusion

From a conservative perspective, Trump’s third year was stronger economically across most metrics compared to Biden’s third year. The key areas of GDP growth, inflation, unemployment, business confidence, and energy independence all favored Trump. Moving forward, Harris’s economic focus aligns with Biden’s policies but lacks a detailed independent platform, while Trump’s economic proposals suggest a return to the pro-business, deregulation, and tax-cutting agenda that defined his first term.

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Higher Taxes: A Short-Sighted Strategy That Will Hurt Everyone Except the Government

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The debate around taxation has heated up once again, with proposals on the table that would impose new taxes on businesses, the wealthy, and even on unrealized capital gains—essentially taxing wealth before it is actually earned or sold. While the rhetoric behind these policies is framed around fairness and economic equality, a deeper dive into the economics suggests that these taxes will do far more harm than good.

In fact, these policies are likely to have damaging effects on economic growth, consumer spending, and job creation. Ironically, even the government itself may not see the tax windfall it expects, as these measures can stifle the very economic activity that generates tax revenue in the first place. Let’s explore why higher taxes may ultimately hurt all levels of society and fail to deliver the expected benefits.

The Tax Burden Always Falls on the Consumer

At first glance, higher taxes on corporations and the wealthy seem like a way to raise revenue without hurting the average citizen. However, this approach ignores a fundamental truth about how the economy works: businesses don’t just absorb additional costs—they pass them on to consumers.

Whether it’s through higher prices for goods and services or reduced wages and benefits for employees, corporations will find ways to maintain profitability. In the end, it’s not the corporations that suffer, but ordinary consumers, especially those who are already struggling to make ends meet. Every additional dollar in taxes can translate into higher grocery bills, pricier gas, and fewer job opportunities.

Capitalism and Economic Growth Depend on Reinvestment

Capitalism thrives on the reinvestment of earnings. Companies that are allowed to retain more of their profits are more likely to reinvest in their operations, whether that means upgrading equipment, expanding into new markets, or hiring additional employees. These actions spur economic growth, create jobs, and improve living standards for everyone involved.

When taxes are increased, however, businesses have fewer resources to reinvest. This slows down economic growth, and the job market weakens as companies cut back on expansion. In this environment, it’s not just the wealthy who feel the pinch; it’s also the workers who depend on a robust economy for employment.

Unrealized Capital Gains: A Dangerous Precedent

One of the most troubling aspects of the current tax proposals is the idea of taxing unrealized capital gains. Typically, capital gains are taxed when an asset is sold, meaning that the owner actually receives a profit. Unrealized capital gains, however, are merely paper gains—an increase in the value of an asset that hasn’t been sold.

Taxing these unrealized gains is not only unprecedented but dangerous. Markets are volatile, and what looks like a gain today can easily turn into a loss tomorrow. By taxing paper gains, the government is essentially demanding money that the taxpayer doesn’t even have in hand. This could force individuals and businesses to sell off assets prematurely to cover their tax bill, distorting markets and damaging long-term investment strategies.

The Ripple Effect: Less Investment, Fewer Jobs

In an interconnected economy, every action has a ripple effect. Higher taxes on businesses and the wealthy reduce their ability to invest in new ventures, cutting off a key source of capital for job creation. Small businesses, which often rely on investment from wealthier individuals and large corporations, will be particularly hard hit.

As investment dries up, so does innovation. Fewer startups will be able to get off the ground, and existing businesses may struggle to remain competitive. The result is fewer jobs, less upward mobility, and ultimately, less economic freedom for everyone.

Consumer Spending: The Real Engine of the Economy

At the heart of any thriving economy is consumer spending. When people have disposable income, they spend it on goods and services, which in turn stimulates production and job growth. Conversely, when taxes go up and people are left with less money in their pockets, they spend less.

The danger here is clear: if consumer spending falls, businesses see their revenues drop. This leads to lower profits, further job cuts, and a slowdown in the overall economy. In such a scenario, the government may not even see the tax windfalls it expects from these new levies. After all, if businesses aren’t making money and consumers aren’t spending, there’s very little taxable income left to draw from.

Government Spending vs. Private Sector Growth

Proponents of higher taxes often argue that government programs funded by these taxes can help spur economic growth and benefit the wider population. However, history has shown that government spending is rarely as efficient or effective as private sector investment.

While there are certainly areas where government intervention is necessary, an over-reliance on tax revenues to fund massive spending programs often leads to waste, inefficiency, and bureaucracy. In contrast, private companies operate in a competitive environment where inefficiency is punished, and innovation is rewarded.

Simply put, private sector growth is a far more reliable engine for long-term prosperity than government spending.

The Inevitable Consequences of High Taxes

The consequences of higher taxes are predictable. When businesses are taxed more, they invest less, hire fewer workers, and raise prices to cover their costs. When the wealthy are taxed more, they invest less in the economy, reducing the capital available for startups and business expansion. When consumers are left with less disposable income due to higher prices and stagnant wages, they spend less, further slowing the economy.

In the end, it’s not just the wealthy who suffer under these policies—it’s everyone. Job creation slows down, wages stagnate, and the cost of living rises. All the while, the government may find itself collecting less revenue than it anticipated as the economy contracts.

A Better Path Forward: Low Taxes, More Growth

Rather than pursuing short-sighted policies that punish success and stifle economic growth, a better approach is to foster an environment where businesses and individuals are encouraged to invest, spend, and create jobs. This can be achieved through a combination of lower taxes, deregulation, and policies that encourage entrepreneurship and innovation.

The evidence is clear: economies grow best when individuals and businesses are free to keep more of their hard-earned money and reinvest it in the economy. High taxes, on the other hand, are a recipe for stagnation and decline.

Conclusion: The Perils of Over-Taxation

While the rhetoric surrounding higher taxes may sound appealing to some, the economic reality is far different. These taxes may provide a temporary boost in government revenues, but they will ultimately lead to slower growth, fewer jobs, and lower living standards for everyone.

Rather than looking to the government for solutions, we should trust the free market and the power of capitalism to create the jobs and opportunities that lead to prosperity. In the end, a strong economy benefits everyone—not just the government.

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Comparing the Policy Platforms of Kamala Harris and Donald Trump: Key Differences in 2024

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As the 2024 U.S. Presidential election looms, two prominent figures emerge with significantly different visions for the country: Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump. Both have outlined their plans in speeches, public statements, and policy documents. Below, I’ll compare the top six policy areas where their platforms diverge and explore how they plan to achieve their objectives. These are based on their publicly stated goals and policy outlines.

1. Economy and Jobs

Kamala Harris: Building a Resilient Economy through Worker Support

Harris has advocated for a “worker-centric” economy, building on the Biden administration’s efforts. She emphasizes creating jobs through infrastructure investments and supporting innovation in clean energy. Key points include:

  • Expanding the Child Tax Credit: Harris strongly supports the expansion of the Child Tax Credit, which provided financial relief to families during the pandemic. She’s committed to making this permanent to help middle- and low-income families.
  • Infrastructure and Clean Energy Jobs: In line with the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act passed during the Biden administration, Harris aims to create millions of jobs by upgrading America’s roads, bridges, and water systems, while investing in renewable energy to reduce carbon emissions.
  • Minimum Wage Increase: Harris supports raising the federal minimum wage to $15 an hour, saying that it’s time to ensure all workers can earn a livable wage.

In her own words: “We need an economy that works for working people — an economy that rewards hard work and builds wealth for families across the country.”

Donald Trump: America First, Deregulation, and Job Creation

Trump continues to emphasize his “America First” economic vision. He promises to bring back manufacturing jobs, reduce taxes, and slash regulations. His key initiatives include:

  • Tax Cuts 2.0: Trump has hinted at further tax cuts to benefit both individuals and corporations. He believes that lowering taxes spurs economic growth and incentivizes investment in the U.S.
  • Energy Independence: Trump vows to make the U.S. energy-independent again by ramping up oil, gas, and coal production, arguing that cheap energy is vital to the economy.
  • Deregulation: Trump plans to roll back regulations that he says stifle business growth, particularly in manufacturing and energy. His administration claimed to have cut eight regulations for every new one during his first term, and he promises to continue this trend.

In his words: “We will make America wealthy again by cutting taxes, removing job-killing regulations, and bringing our manufacturing jobs back from overseas.”

2. Immigration

Kamala Harris: Pathways to Citizenship and Humane Enforcement

Harris supports comprehensive immigration reform, including pathways to citizenship for undocumented immigrants. Her main points include:

  • Pathway for DREAMers: Harris is a strong advocate for legislation that provides a pathway to citizenship for DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) recipients and other undocumented immigrants.
  • Asylum Reform: She supports streamlining the asylum process, ensuring that those fleeing violence and persecution can apply more easily.
  • Border Security with Humane Policies: Harris has stated that while border security is important, she wants to enforce immigration laws without separating families or detaining children.

Harris: “Immigration reform is about fairness, security, and making sure that every person has a fair shot at contributing to this great country.”

Donald Trump: Border Wall and Tough Enforcement

Trump’s stance on immigration has remained largely unchanged from his first term. His plan centers on border security, strict enforcement, and reducing both illegal and legal immigration:

  • Finish the Border Wall: Trump vows to complete the construction of the wall along the U.S.-Mexico border, citing it as essential for national security.
  • Zero Tolerance on Illegal Immigration: Trump plans to reintroduce policies that quickly deport undocumented immigrants, promising to restore his administration’s strict measures, such as the “Remain in Mexico” policy.
  • Limit Legal Immigration: Trump has advocated for a merit-based immigration system to reduce the overall number of immigrants allowed into the country, emphasizing that the U.S. should prioritize highly skilled workers.

Trump: “We will stop illegal immigration, finish the wall, and make our borders strong again.”

3. Healthcare

Kamala Harris: Expanding Healthcare Access

Harris supports strengthening the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and expanding access to healthcare. Her main priorities include:

  • Public Option: Harris has voiced support for adding a public option to the ACA, allowing Americans to buy into a government-backed health plan if they choose.
  • Lowering Prescription Drug Costs: Harris supports policies that would allow Medicare to negotiate drug prices, a measure she argues will bring down costs for consumers.
  • Maternal Healthcare: One of Harris’s signature policy focuses has been reducing the high maternal mortality rates, particularly among Black women. She advocates for increased funding to improve maternal healthcare services.

Harris: “Healthcare is a right, not a privilege. We must expand access to affordable healthcare for every American.”

Donald Trump: Private Market Solutions and ACA Repeal

Trump continues to advocate for market-driven healthcare reforms, focused on lowering costs through competition. His key goals include:

  • Repeal the Affordable Care Act: Trump remains committed to repealing the ACA, believing it imposes unnecessary burdens on businesses and leads to higher premiums for individuals.
  • Health Savings Accounts (HSAs): Trump promotes expanding HSAs, allowing Americans to save more tax-free money to spend on healthcare.
  • Price Transparency: Trump continues to advocate for greater price transparency in healthcare to encourage competition and reduce costs. His administration introduced some price transparency rules during his first term, which he promises to expand.

Trump: “We will deliver great healthcare by getting government out of the way and letting patients and doctors make decisions.”

4. Climate and Energy

Kamala Harris: Climate Action and Clean Energy

Harris prioritizes fighting climate change and advancing renewable energy solutions. Her primary policy objectives include:

  • Green New Deal Support: Harris has voiced support for the Green New Deal framework, aiming for a 100% clean energy economy by 2050.
  • Climate Justice: Harris emphasizes the need for environmental justice, ensuring that low-income and minority communities, who are often disproportionately affected by pollution, receive support through green investments.
  • Carbon Emissions Reductions: Harris has advocated for stronger emissions reductions and has promised to re-engage the U.S. in global climate agreements like the Paris Accord.

Harris: “Climate change is an existential threat, and we must act boldly to protect our planet and our people.”

Donald Trump: Energy Independence and Fossil Fuels

Trump’s energy policy revolves around maximizing domestic production of fossil fuels and pulling back regulations on energy producers:

  • Promote Oil, Gas, and Coal: Trump plans to increase oil, natural gas, and coal production, rolling back regulations that limit fossil fuel extraction.
  • Withdraw from Climate Accords: Trump pulled the U.S. out of the Paris Climate Agreement during his first term and has expressed no intention of rejoining it. He argues that such agreements unfairly burden the U.S. economy.
  • End Renewable Energy Subsidies: Trump argues that the government should not be in the business of picking winners and losers and has vowed to end subsidies for renewable energy programs.

Trump: “We will restore American energy dominance and bring back jobs by producing the cleanest and cheapest energy in the world.”

5. Criminal Justice Reform

Kamala Harris: Comprehensive Reform

Harris has made criminal justice reform a central part of her platform. Her key initiatives include:

  • End Cash Bail: Harris supports eliminating the cash bail system, which she argues disproportionately affects poor and minority communities.
  • Sentencing Reform: Harris supports reducing mandatory minimum sentences, particularly for non-violent drug offenses.
  • Police Accountability: Harris advocates for greater accountability in law enforcement, including the creation of national standards for the use of force.

Harris: “We need comprehensive criminal justice reform that treats all people equally in the eyes of the law.”

Donald Trump: Law and Order

Trump emphasizes “law and order,” focusing on supporting police and tough-on-crime policies. His main points include:

  • Increase Police Funding: Trump supports increasing funding for police departments and believes in the need to expand law enforcement, not defund it.
  • Tougher Sentences for Violent Crimes: Trump advocates for harsher penalties for violent criminals and repeat offenders, opposing measures to reduce sentences.
  • Oppose Bail Reform: Trump has been critical of bail reform initiatives, arguing that they allow dangerous criminals to be released back into communities.

Trump: “We will stand with our police and stop the radical left’s soft-on-crime policies.”

6. Foreign Policy

Kamala Harris: Multilateralism and Diplomacy

Harris advocates for rebuilding alliances and restoring America’s leadership on the global stage:

  • Rebuild Alliances: Harris supports restoring relationships with NATO allies and working collaboratively on global challenges.
  • Human Rights and Democracy: She has emphasized the need to promote human rights and democracy abroad, focusing on diplomacy over military intervention.
  • China and Russia: Harris supports a tough but balanced approach to countering China’s rise and addressing Russian aggression, using economic pressure and alliances.

Harris: “We must lead with diplomacy and strengthen our alliances to address the challenges of today’s world.”

Donald Trump: America First in Foreign Policy

Trump’s foreign policy emphasizes putting American interests above all else, with a focus on military strength and economic deals:

  • Bring Troops Home: Trump has pledged to end America’s “endless wars” and bring U.S. troops home from conflict zones, focusing instead on protecting the homeland.
  • China Trade War: Trump promises to continue his tough stance on China, using tariffs and economic measures to combat what he calls unfair trade practices.
  • NATO Contributions: Trump has consistently criticized NATO members for not paying their fair share, advocating for increased defense spending from U.S. allies.

Trump: “We will put America first, stop the endless wars, and make sure our allies pay their fair share.”

Conclusion

Kamala Harris and Donald Trump represent starkly different visions for America in 2024. Harris focuses on progressive reforms in healthcare, climate change, and criminal justice, while Trump emphasizes deregulation, tax cuts, and strict immigration enforcement. Both candidates’ platforms reflect their broader political philosophies, with Harris leaning toward government intervention to solve societal problems and Trump favoring free-market solutions and national security measures.

In this election, the choice will likely come down to the voters’ preferences for either continuing progressive policies under Harris or returning to Trump’s vision of “America First” conservatism.

Sources:

  • Kamala Harris speeches, White House documents, and her campaign website
  • Donald Trump speeches, campaign documents, and his public statements
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Bias in Plain Sight: ABC Debate Moderators’ Admission Exposes Unfair Targeting of Trump

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The latest political debate between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris has raised eyebrows for more reasons than one. The most glaring issue that emerged from the event wasn’t just the clashing of policy perspectives, but the clear bias from the debate moderators. ABC News anchor Linsey Davis, who co-moderated the debate with David Muir, admitted in a post-debate interview why they specifically targeted Trump for fact-checks—while largely ignoring Harris.

This revelation is more than just a footnote in the ever-growing narrative of media bias; it highlights how even debates, a cornerstone of American democracy, can be tilted to favor one side over the other. It wasn’t just the imbalance in fact-checking that was problematic, but the admission that the motivation behind it was rooted in a fear of poor optics for the Democratic Party.

The Setup: Uneven Ground from the Start

According to Linsey Davis, the reason Trump was fact-checked so rigorously was due to concerns about Joe Biden’s performance in a prior debate. In June, Biden’s weak showing raised serious questions about his cognitive fitness for office, stoking fears within the Democratic Party about the viability of his candidacy. The fallout from Biden’s performance led to rumors that his own party wanted him to step down.

This concern apparently drove Davis and Muir to take a different approach when moderating the Trump-Harris debate. Instead of holding both candidates to an even standard, the moderators seemed determined to avoid a repeat of Biden’s disastrous performance by taking special aim at Trump. Davis admitted to the Los Angeles Times that they fact-checked Trump because of the “concerns” raised during the Biden debate, but her reasoning is troubling. Instead of creating a fair forum for all candidates, the moderators preemptively decided to stack the deck against one.

As Davis put it: “People were concerned that statements were allowed to just hang and not [be] disputed by the candidate Biden, at the time, or the moderators.”

The vague wording—“people were concerned” and “statements were allowed”—hides the fact that a decision was made to approach Trump’s statements with heightened scrutiny, while Harris was left unchecked. It’s one thing to hold all candidates accountable, but it’s another to apply different standards to protect one candidate from embarrassment.

A Double Standard in Action

Nowhere was this bias clearer than when Trump brought up the topic of abortion. During the debate, Trump highlighted how some states, including Washington D.C., have zero legal restrictions on abortion—a fact that many conservative voters are acutely aware of. He also referenced Virginia Governor Ralph Northam’s infamous comments on post-birth abortion. For many conservatives, this is a critical issue, as the boundaries of abortion policy are not just about access but about fundamental questions of life and morality.

Rather than engaging with the substance of Trump’s claims or allowing Harris to defend her position, Davis stepped in to “fact-check” Trump. She asserted: “There is no state in this country where it is legal to kill a baby after it’s born.”

While technically true—killing a baby post-birth is considered murder under U.S. law—the point Trump was making centered on the radical abortion policies some states have adopted, which allow for late-term abortions with very few restrictions. Davis’ fact-check glossed over the fact that Harris and many Democrats refuse to clarify their stance on any abortion restrictions. By focusing on a technicality, Davis effectively shielded Harris from the deeper moral and policy debate that Trump was trying to raise.

Harris, for her part, was not subjected to the same level of scrutiny. During the debate, she made sweeping claims about the economy, healthcare, and immigration that went unchallenged. For example, Harris touted the Biden administration’s economic policies without addressing the ongoing inflation crisis, or the fact that many Americans are struggling with the rising costs of essentials like food and fuel. The moderators allowed these claims to go unchecked, leaving the audience with a one-sided view of the debate.

The Impact of Media Bias on the Democratic Process

The role of the media in moderating debates is supposed to be one of neutrality, where both sides are held to the same standard. However, as Davis’ comments reveal, this wasn’t the case in the Trump-Harris debate. The decision to fact-check only Trump, while giving Harris a pass, confirms what many conservatives have suspected for years: the mainstream media is not only biased, but actively works to shape the narrative in favor of the Democratic Party.

When the moderators of a presidential debate are more concerned with protecting one candidate from potential damage than they are with presenting the facts to the American people, the entire democratic process is undermined. This is no longer about policy or leadership; it’s about controlling the optics and ensuring one side doesn’t look bad.

As Davis herself noted in her interview: “There is a stereotype that I am acutely aware of that I can’t be unbiased covering this moment.” While she brushed off concerns of bias, her acknowledgment is telling. She’s aware of the perception, yet unapologetically continues to operate in a way that fuels the belief that mainstream outlets have abandoned journalistic integrity.

The Bigger Picture: Trust in the Media is Dwindling

Davis and Muir’s decision to focus on fact-checking Trump is symptomatic of a larger issue that is crippling public trust in the media. According to a Gallup poll in 2022, only 34% of Americans trust the media to report the news fairly. This decline in trust has been especially pronounced among conservatives, who often feel that their perspectives are misrepresented or ignored.

The Trump-Harris debate is just the latest example of why this mistrust is growing. When voters tune into a debate, they expect the moderators to be fair and impartial. Instead, what they got was a premeditated decision to fact-check one candidate while letting the other slide. This not only creates an uneven playing field but also leaves viewers questioning the reliability of the information they’re being presented.

Conclusion: A Call for Fairness

The Trump-Harris debate should serve as a wake-up call for those concerned about the integrity of our political discourse. When moderators like Linsey Davis admit that they approached the debate with a predetermined bias against one candidate, it’s clear that something is wrong. The media’s role is to facilitate open and fair discussion, not to editorialize in real-time to protect one side from criticism.

If we want to restore trust in the media and the political process, we must demand more from those who moderate our debates. We need to hold moderators accountable for their biases and ensure that all candidates are treated equally. Until that happens, debates will continue to be less about substance and more about controlling the narrative—a disservice to the American public and the democratic process as a whole.

References:

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The Debate Double Standard: Media Bias in the Trump-Harris Showdown

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In the latest high-profile political debate between former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris, a familiar controversy reared its head: media bias. What should have been a spirited, fact-based discussion on the future of America instead became a lesson in double standards, as moderators seemed more intent on fact-checking every statement Trump made, while giving Harris a virtual free pass on hers. The debate was supposed to be about policy, but it quickly became about perception—particularly the perception that the mainstream media continues to apply different standards to conservative and liberal candidates.

In this article, we’ll explore how this double standard plays out, its impact on public trust, and why the relentless scrutiny of conservative candidates like Trump while giving liberals like Harris an easier ride undermines the democratic process.

The Media’s Role in Moderating Political Debates

Moderators in political debates hold a great deal of responsibility. Their role is to keep candidates on track, ensuring that the debate is not only fair but informative for the public. However, in recent years, it has become clear that some moderators see their roles as something more—fact-checkers-in-chief. While fact-checking can be important, particularly when candidates stretch the truth or mislead the public, the inconsistency in how this is applied depending on the political ideology of the candidate is alarming.

Take, for example, the Trump-Harris debate. From the outset, it was obvious that Trump would be under the microscope, with the moderators ready to jump on any statement they perceived as inaccurate or misleading. Harris, on the other hand, seemed to benefit from a “soft-touch” approach, with her statements often going unchecked. This uneven playing field not only diminishes the quality of the debate but leaves viewers wondering if they can trust what they’re seeing.

The Double Standard in Fact-Checking

Let’s be clear: politicians of all stripes can bend the truth. That’s the nature of politics. However, the selective nature of fact-checking during the debate between Trump and Harris was striking. When Trump brought up legitimate concerns about border security, economic growth, or the Biden administration’s policies, moderators were quick to interrupt, offering corrections or challenges. Meanwhile, when Harris made broad claims about her administration’s successes or attacked Trump’s past record, the moderators were conspicuously silent.

This isn’t a new phenomenon. Throughout Trump’s presidency, the media applied an unprecedented level of scrutiny to his every word, often fact-checking him in real-time during speeches and press conferences. In contrast, Democratic politicians, including Harris, seem to enjoy a much more lenient standard. For instance, when Harris made claims during the debate about the Biden administration’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, she wasn’t questioned, despite legitimate concerns about the inconsistencies in messaging and results throughout their tenure.

One glaring example during the debate occurred when Harris claimed that the Biden administration had “rebuilt the economy” following the COVID-19 pandemic. This assertion wasn’t fact-checked in real-time, despite the fact that under Biden, inflation soared to its highest level in decades, and many Americans are still grappling with rising costs of living. Compare this to Trump’s handling of the economy, which saw record-low unemployment and economic growth before the pandemic hit. Trump’s success was rarely given credit, and Harris’ sweeping claims went unchallenged.

Bias Erodes Public Trust

The imbalance in how moderators fact-check candidates doesn’t just affect the candidates themselves—it also deeply impacts public trust in the media and political processes. The perception of bias in the media is nothing new, but it’s growing. According to a 2022 Gallup poll, only 34% of Americans have trust in the mass media to report the news “fully, accurately, and fairly.” That’s down significantly from previous decades, and there’s no sign that the trend is reversing.

When moderators in high-profile debates like the Trump-Harris showdown display obvious bias, it only deepens the public’s skepticism. Conservatives already feel that the mainstream media is stacked against them, and debates like this only reinforce that belief. When one candidate is held accountable for every statement while the other is given a free pass, it erodes the public’s confidence in the integrity of the process.

In fact, the media’s unwillingness to challenge Harris on controversial issues—from the economy to immigration to foreign policy—suggests a protective bias that many in the conservative camp have long suspected. If Harris’s policies and claims are so strong, they should stand up to scrutiny. Yet, moderators seem to believe that subjecting her to the same level of fact-checking as Trump would be too damaging to her image or her party’s chances. This selective oversight is not just lazy journalism—it’s a form of advocacy.

The Impact of Media Bias on Elections

Media bias doesn’t just distort the outcome of debates—it can ultimately influence elections. When the American people are given one-sided information, it becomes much harder for them to make informed decisions. Elections are supposed to be about choosing the best leader based on their policies, track record, and vision for the country. But when one candidate’s words are dissected and scrutinized in real-time while the other is allowed to make broad, unchecked claims, it skews the playing field.

Let’s consider a hypothetical scenario where both Trump and Harris were fact-checked equally. Would Harris have been able to stand up to the same level of scrutiny? It’s doubtful. Her record and that of the Biden administration are not without flaws. From mishandling immigration policy to overseeing an economy plagued by inflation, there’s plenty to critique. Yet, when moderators shield her from tough questions, they are essentially picking winners and losers in the eyes of the public.

This selective approach to fact-checking also sends a message to other politicians and future candidates: If you’re a conservative, expect to be grilled on every detail, but if you’re a liberal, the media will let things slide. This is not only unfair, but it also discourages robust debate and weakens the political process.

Why Conservative Voices Matter

The Trump-Harris debate underscores the importance of having strong conservative voices in the media and public discourse. While the mainstream media may be biased, alternative outlets—particularly those in the conservative sphere—have become essential to providing balance. Conservative blogs, news outlets, and commentators play a crucial role in holding both sides accountable, offering the kind of analysis and scrutiny that the mainstream media often fails to provide.

It’s crucial for conservative voices to continue highlighting these double standards, because when one side is allowed to dominate the narrative, it damages the democratic process. Every candidate, regardless of party, should be held to the same standard. If Trump is going to be fact-checked, Harris should be too. If Harris is allowed to make bold claims without pushback, then Trump should be afforded the same courtesy.

In the end, the American people deserve better. They deserve debates that are fair, balanced, and focused on the issues that matter most. Unfortunately, as the Trump-Harris debate showed, that’s not always what they get. But by staying informed, questioning the media’s narratives, and seeking out alternative viewpoints, voters can still make informed decisions based on the truth, rather than a skewed version of it.

Conclusion: Restoring Balance

The Trump-Harris debate wasn’t just a missed opportunity for substantive policy discussion—it was another example of how media bias continues to poison the well of public discourse. The selective fact-checking of Trump, while allowing Harris to evade similar scrutiny, revealed once again that the media is more interested in advancing a narrative than fostering a fair and balanced debate.

If we want to restore faith in our political process, we must demand more from our media. We must insist on fairness, transparency, and equal treatment for all candidates, regardless of their political affiliation. Only then can we begin to rebuild the trust that has been lost and ensure that future debates truly serve the American people.