Vice President Harris's New Plan for Black Men: A Closer Look

Vice President Kamala Harris has recently rolled out an "Opportunity Agenda for Black Men," hoping to boost her support among this crucial voting group. The plan includes access to business loans, mentorship programs, and the legalization of recreational marijuana. It also aims to protect cryptocurrency transactions and launch a health initiative focusing on issues that disproportionately affect black men. But is this plan really beneficial? Some people think it's more about pandering than genuine help. Many black men face serious issues like poverty and violence, not just access to cryptocurrencies. Plus, who wants a government-appointed mentor? Some parts of this plan might even face legal challenges. Even some progressive voices have criticized certain aspects of the plan. Perry Bacon Jr. , a columnist for The Washington Post, isn't sure about pushing the idea that black men need more mentorship. This new approach is a change from Harris's previous strategy. During her campaign, she avoided explicit identity politics, focusing more on universal values like the economy and border issues. But worrying poll numbers have pushed her to adopt a more race-centric message. Since former President Barack Obama's big win among black men in 2008, support for the Democratic Party has been dropping. In recent elections, the margin of victory has been shrinking. Maybe black men, like other groups, are voting based on their policy priorities rather than just identity. Some say the Democratic Party has alienated young men by promoting itself as the "party for women" and "social justice. " Former President Trump's appeal to masculinity might be a factor. The Democrats seem to be trying to respond by highlighting figures like Governor Tim Walz and Doug Emhoff. Experts suggest that Democrats need to adopt policies that actually help young black men. This could include stronger law enforcement in inner cities, support for school choice programs, and tougher border enforcement.