President Joe Biden began a pivotal tour across Pennsylvania, starting in Scranton, his birthplace, where he reiterated his proposal to increase taxes on the wealthy and major corporations.
This tour is part of his strategy to improve his declining poll numbers concerning his economic policies by contrasting his taxation plans against those of his Republican opponent, Donald Trump.
During his speech in Scranton, Biden emphasized the unfairness in the current tax system, stating, “No billionaire should pay a lower tax rate than a teacher.”
He criticized the economic model favored by Trump, declaring, “trickle-down economics” had failed and “the truth is Donald Trump embodies that failure.”
Pennsylvania, with its 19 electoral votes—one of the largest allocations in the U.S.—is crucial for the 2024 presidential race. It historically swings between Democratic and Republican support.
Biden narrowly secured Pennsylvania in the 2020 elections and plans to campaign in Pittsburgh and Philadelphia next, highlighting his economic and tax policies in contrast to Trump’s approach.
As Biden engages in these critical campaign efforts, Trump was involved in a New York City criminal trial, creating a significant contrast in their current activities.
Biden’s campaign strategy emerges amid concerns among voters about the U.S. economy, despite positive indicators such as job growth and GDP increases.
Many attribute rising costs in everyday expenses and high interest rates to Biden’s administration.
Local perspectives, like that of Jennifer Saunders, owner of a coffee shop on the newly named Biden Street in Scranton, reflect mixed feelings about economic issues.
Saunders expressed concerns about the economic pressures on business owners, stating, “I am more concerned about the rising costs of supplies and how much I can pass on to consumers.”
Polls indicate a challenge for Biden, with a Reuters/Ipsos survey showing Trump leading Biden on economic management trust.
Nevertheless, Biden hopes his focus on tax reforms and economic policies will resonate with blue-collar voters in Pennsylvania—a demographic that has shown fluctuating support in past elections.
Biden’s strategy also involves addressing the broader concerns of voters in the Rust Belt states, critical for maintaining his position in the White House.
In addition to economic issues, Biden faces criticism over foreign policy issues, such as the situation in Gaza, which has led to protests and dissatisfaction among some voters.
Amber Viola, a local podcaster, expressed her discomfort with participating in campaign events, highlighting the broader discontent, “I don’t feel comfortable posing for campaign photos when there are people dying.”
Biden’s campaign continues amid these multifaceted challenges, as he seeks to connect with voters across key battleground states.