In Aston, Pennsylvania, Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic presidential nominee, branded her Republican rival, former President Donald Trump, as a “fascist” and characterized him as “increasingly unstable and unfit” for the presidency during a town hall meeting in Delaware County on Wednesday, less than two weeks before the general election.
Harris referred to statements from Trump’s former aides, claiming he harbors “contempt” for the Constitution. She specifically highlighted comments from John Kelly, Trump’s longest-serving Chief of Staff and a four-star Marine general, who recently expressed concerns about Trump’s fitness to lead.
During the event, moderated by CNN’s Anderson Cooper, Harris addressed questions from undecided voters for over an hour. Trump, who was in Georgia for a rally, opted not to participate in a scheduled debate.
The town hall audience comprised a mix of Democrats, Republicans, and independents, selected by a nonpartisan group working with local organizations and businesses.
Harris discussed the divisive political atmosphere, stating that Americans are tired of partisan finger-pointing and affirming her commitment to represent all citizens. She intends to focus on solutions rather than partisan interests, criticizing Trump for allegedly considering partisan votes in his decisions about disaster relief.
Responding to a question about rising grocery prices, Harris promised a “new approach” that would include a national ban on price gouging and a focus on affordable housing, advocating for collaboration with the private sector to generate more housing stock.
On the topic of codifying Roe v. Wade in the Constitution, Harris suggested revisiting the filibuster to secure the necessary votes in the Senate. She emphasized the need for bipartisan efforts to address women’s reproductive rights, citing the public’s desire for freedom as shown in recent elections.
Regarding immigration, Harris criticized Trump for obstructing bipartisan efforts to reform immigration laws, asserting the need for both border security and a pathway to citizenship for hardworking individuals.
When asked about U.S. funding of the conflict in Israel and Palestine, she expressed that many innocent Palestinian lives have been lost and stressed the need for a resolution that brings relief and emphasizes a two-state solution.
The Trump campaign responded to Harris’s town hall, labeling it a collection of “lies” and “radical leftism.”
Other topics covered included economic plans, with Harris outlining tax benefits for small businesses and parents while pledging not to raise taxes on anyone earning less than $400,000. She emphasized her distinct approach and ideas, marking a departure from the Biden administration.
Harris also shared her personal experiences caring for family, underscoring her understanding of the challenges faced by the “sandwich generation.”
When questioned about potentially expanding the Supreme Court, she acknowledged a growing public distrust in the court and called for reforms but did not commit to a specific plan. Additionally, she faced queries about her evolving policy positions, asserting that adaptation to new information is essential in effective leadership.
Both campaigns are intensifying their efforts in Pennsylvania, a crucial battleground state with 19 electoral votes, as the election approaches. Harris is set to appear in the Philadelphia area on Sunday, while Trump will be in State College on Saturday.