Washington, October 14—Democratic presidential contender Kamala Harris presented new policy proposals on Monday focused particularly on Black men, a rapidly growing concern as her support from this crucial electorate is fading. The policy ideas included forgivable small business loans and entry into the developing legal recreational pot industry as part of a new focus on voting turnout and trying to win over votes before the November 5 election.

Harris’s campaign, along with other key Democrats- former President Barack Obama- have expressed concern about whether Black men will turn out to vote in the same numbers that they have in previous elections and whether they will turn out to vote for Harris or her Republican opponent, former President Donald Trump. The policy package included 1 million fully forgivable loans of up to $20,000 for entrepreneurs in underserved communities- directly speaking to Black men’s needs and framing them as essential to the campaign.

It also seeks to legalise recreational marijuana, putting in provisions that the new industry should be opened to Black entrepreneurs with the same opportunity as any other being. Advocates have long pushed for reducing criminal penalties for drug use, and equitable participation in the legal marijuana business, especially with the disparity law enforcement has on communities of colour. However, in many predominantly Black neighbourhoods, there is resistance against allowing such companies to be set up in the neighbourhood.

Other aspects of Harris’ platform include investment in the cryptocurrency industry for Black Americans and a national health equity initiative focused on diseases that disproportionately affect Black men, such as sickle cell anaemia. Harris emphasises, however, that her economic plan will appeal to all men because it addresses the needs of that community.

As part of her community outreach, Harris will visit Erie County, Pennsylvania, for a rally and a stop at a Black-owned business. Her campaign said Harris “understands that Black men have often felt unheard in the political process and that there is untapped ambition and leadership within the Black male community.”

If elected, Harris would become the second Black president and the first Black woman in the White House. She faces significant challenges with Black male support, a demographic many Democrats view as key to her success. A new NAACP poll indicated that more than a quarter of young Black males intend to vote for Trump, a dramatic shift from the around 80% with whom President Joe Biden was favoured in 2020.

This policy rollout comes at a critical time, ahead of Harris’ expected interview with Charlamagne Tha God, the loudmouthed top radio host and Biden administration critic who wields significant influence with younger Black voters. The interview is seen as a crucial opportunity for Harris to listen to criticism and do something to shore up her standing with Black men leading into the campaign’s final days.

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