Kamala Harris Outlines Potential Executive Action on Federal Job Qualifications
Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic Party presidential nominee, aims to transform federal hiring policies and at a recent campaign rally, she outlined her plans to eliminate degree requirements for some federal jobs, a move she believes will create more equitable employment opportunities.
Harris announced her intention to remove these degree barriers as part of her first action if elected to the Oval Office, as the Daily Caller reports.
Unveiling Job Opportunity Plans in Wisconsin
During a speech at the IBEW local union hall in Janesville, Wisconsin, Harris spoke about her policy intentions to broaden access to federal jobs.
This declaration is not just an empty promise; Harris says it is set to be acted upon immediately if she assumes the presidency, showcasing what she believes is a proactive approach to governance.
Harris emphasized what she says are the practical aspects of this policy, detailing how such changes could be implemented through an executive order.
This approach underscores what supporters say is her readiness to employ the executive powers vested in the presidency to effect immediate changes in government operations.
The VP's comments also highlighted a broader challenge to the private sector, urging businesses to reconsider their hiring requirements. Harris hopes that federal action will inspire similar adaptations in private employment practices.
September Announcements and Public Challenges
The initiative to reduce degree requirements was first mentioned by Harris during a previous policy discussion in September.
The idea has been part of her policy repertoire in recent weeks, discussed at various campaign stops, including a significant rally in Pennsylvania.
In mid-September, Harris reiterated her call to the private sector in Pennsylvania, aiming to initiate a broader reassessment of qualifications and competencies required for employment. By advocating for these changes, Harris is attempting to connect her campaign to practical outcomes in job accessibility.
According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau released in early 2023, around 62% of Americans aged 25 or older do not hold a bachelor's degree, which places a significant portion of the workforce at a disadvantage under current employment criteria.
Harris's Broader Economic Strategy
On Oct. 29, in Washington, D.C., Harris delivered her "closing argument" speech, which not only focused on the impending election against Donald Trump but also previewed her priorities if elected.
She elucidated her plan to tackle the cost of living as a critical aspect of her economic policy, aiming to address prices of housing, childcare, and groceries.
This economic package, intended to be among her administration’s top priorities, showcases what she says is her commitment to addressing the immediate needs of families across the nation. Harris described it as a set of initiatives with a "singular purpose" to reduce financial pressures on average Americans.
Harris's strategies aim to distinguish her potential presidency from current White House approaches, although she has been cautious about specifying which aspects of President Biden’s policies she would alter.
Voter Priorities and Economic Concerns
Top issues on voters' minds this election cycle include the economy, inflation, and immigration. Harris’s focus on jobs and the cost of living directly engages with these widespread voter concerns and illustrates her campaign’s attempted alignment with public priorities.
Despite criticisms of her tenure as vice president, Harris’s response to queries about changes she would implement from the last few years reflected a sense of confidence in the current administration and her own prior roles. On ABC's The View, she implied that her track record stands robust against scrutiny, emphasizing stability in her administrative approach.
Her stance shows what she says is a strategic alignment with both continuity in governance and the necessity for change which enhances public service and economic resilience.