3 months ago
24
During Tuesday night’s presidential debate, former President
Donald
Trump labeled Vice President
Kamala Harris
as a Marxist, attributing her political ideology to her father,
Donald Harris
, a Stanford University economics professor.
“She’s a Marxist — everybody knows she’s a Marxist,” Trump declared. “Her father is a Marxist professor in economics, and he taught her well.” This attack fits into Trump’s broader strategy of positioning
Harris
as further left than President Joe Biden, dubbing her “Comrade Kamala” over her proposals to address what she describes as corporate “price gouging.”
Despite Trump’s accusations, Harris has consistently defended her support for a free-market capitalist economy.
However, Trump's comments draw on the controversial academic background of Donald Harris.
Who is Donald Harris?
At 86, Donald Harris is a prominent figure in economics, having been the first Black scholar to receive tenure in Stanford's economics department. His tenure was marked by opposition, with critics accusing him of leading students away from mainstream economic theories.
The Stanford Daily reported in 1976 that some viewed him as “too charismatic,” describing him as a “pied piper” who diverged from neoclassical economics.
Donald Harris's Marxist label stems from his critique of traditional economic theories and his alternative perspectives on economics, which differed sharply from the prevailing free-market views.
Donald Harris, now a professor emeritus at Stanford, did not appear at the convention but has remained a respected academic figure. His writings, including reflections on his strained relationship with his children, have been featured in various publications, including Jamaica Global.
Kamala on father's influence
Kamala Harris has acknowledged her father's influence, particularly during her campaign. “From my earliest years,” she said in a speech at the Democratic National Convention, “he taught me to be fearless.” Despite the personal and political challenges, including a contentious custody battle that limited her contact with him during her childhood, she has consistently highlighted his role in shaping her character.
Kamala Harris has garnered support from over 80 CEOs, with many describing her as “pro-business,” countering the Marxist portrayal by her critics.
