Kamala Harris Calls Out Trump: ‘He’s Just Not Very Serious’ About the Economy

Vice President Kamala Harris took a direct shot at former President Donald Trump, criticizing his approach to economic issues during an interview with MSNBC’s Stephanie Ruhle. Speaking candidly, Harris suggested that Trump lacks a serious plan when it comes to addressing the nation’s economic challenges.

“Part of it is, you don’t just throw around the idea of tariffs across the board,” Harris said during the interview, which aired on All In With Chris Hayes while she was campaigning in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, a key battleground state. “That’s part of the problem with Donald Trump—frankly, I’m going to, and I say this in all sincerity, he’s just not very serious about how he thinks about some of these issues.”

Harris emphasized that political leadership requires more than just bold rhetoric and flashy statements at rallies. “One must be serious and have a plan, a real plan that’s not just about some talking point ending in an exclamation at a political rally,” she added, underscoring her belief that Trump’s economic policies lack substance, told The Guardian.

Harris Criticizes Trump’s Tariff Proposal

The Vice President also took aim at Trump’s recent suggestion of imposing a 20% tariff on all imports, warning of its potential consequences for American consumers. “It would be a sales tax on the American people,” Harris explained. “The independent economists have already measured this.”

She continued by illustrating the real-world impact of Trump’s tariff plan. “A 20% tariff would be, in essence, a 20% sales tax on basic necessities for the average American worker and family, totaling almost $4,000 a year,” Harris stressed the significance of this burden, particularly on working-class families. “That is no small matter,” Harris said firmly, adding, “People can’t afford that.”

Harris Highlights Her Economic Plan

In contrast to Trump’s proposals, Harris laid out her own economic vision, one that she described as grounded in real solutions for working Americans. She spoke about her initiatives aimed at providing financial support to families and small businesses, which she believes will help drive long-term economic growth.

Among her plans, Harris highlighted a $25,000 down payment assistance program for first-time homebuyers, which she said would help create pathways to homeownership for working families. She also touted her proposal for a $6,000 child tax credit and a $50,000 tax deduction for first-time small business startups, designed to foster entrepreneurship and help individuals build “intergenerational wealth.” “That’s a real plan,” Ruhle responded, recognizing the substance behind Harris’ proposals.

Harris agreed, emphasizing the need for seriousness in policymaking. “It’s a real plan because right now, it’s about paying attention to the details and being serious about it,” she said. Harris further expressed her commitment to supporting small businesses, calling them a critical part of America’s economic engine. “I’m serious about my enthusiasm for small businesses and my belief in what they will do as part of America’s economic recovery.”

Serious Solutions for Serious Problems

Harris’ critique of Trump underscored a broader point: while Trump’s economic ideas may capture headlines, they lack the practicality and depth needed to address the real challenges facing American families. In contrast, Harris positioned herself as a leader who offers thoughtful, detailed plans aimed at strengthening the middle class and fostering long-term economic prosperity.

Her remarks on the economy reflect a clear divide between her and Trump, one that emphasizes the need for well-constructed, serious solutions rather than grandiose, unworkable ideas. As she continues her campaign efforts, Harris is making it clear that she is focused on creating policies that prioritize the needs of the average American.