Vice President Kamala Harris is proposing an expansion of tax incentives for small businesses during a campaign stop in New Hampshire. The plan aims to increase tax incentives for small business startup expenses from $5,000 to $50,000, with the goal of generating 25 million new small business applications over four years.
Harris made the announcement while visiting the Portsmouth area, emphasizing her support for entrepreneurship. This move represents a shift from her previous calls for higher taxes on wealthy Americans and large corporations.
New Hampshire, traditionally a blue state in recent presidential elections, holds significance as it shares a border with Maine, a state that splits its electoral votes. Harris's visit to New Hampshire marks a departure from her focus on battleground states in the Midwest and Sun Belt regions.
Since President Joe Biden endorsed Harris and withdrew from the 2024 election, Harris has concentrated on key states like Michigan, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, Arizona, Nevada, Georgia, and North Carolina. Her proposal to expand tax incentives for small businesses aligns with her campaign's emphasis on strengthening the middle class.
While Harris has not released many major policy proposals since assuming the Democratic ticket's lead, she has indicated continuity with the Biden administration's tax policies. Her plan to combat inflation by addressing 'price gouging' from food producers reflects her commitment to supporting working-class Americans.
The Harris campaign's focus on New Hampshire is notable, given the state's history of political significance. Despite some Democrats' discontent over the state's primary scheduling, Harris's campaign has established 17 field offices in coordination with the state Democratic party, compared to Trump's single office.
Trump has criticized Harris's campaign strategy in New Hampshire, citing concerns over the state's cost of living, energy bills, and housing market. However, Harris's visit underscores her commitment to engaging with voters in diverse regions and addressing economic challenges.
