The economy is often described as one of the most important election issues before an American presidential election – and 2024 is no exception. Several voter surveys have shown that it is economic policy that voters rank highest. High food and petrol prices and rampant housing costs are priority areas for many voters, not least among low-income earners.
In one of Nashville’s poorest areas, Bordeaux, several of the residents tell TV4 Nyheterna that they do not have an optimistic view of the economy before election day.
– It’s a tough life, everything is very expensive. You can only get by if you have a job and you don’t earn very much from it. Here in Nashville you have to have two or three jobs at least, says mother of five Shay Horton.
Big problems with crime and violent crime
The district also has major problems with high levels of crime and violent crime, and in some cases the lack of money and food leads to violence. In a small grocery store in the district, run by Kirellos Habid and his cousins, the desperation among the customers has been felt when there is sometimes a lack of money to pay for the goods.
– My cousins have had some problems where someone sometimes pointed a weapon at them either for fun or in more serious situations, he says.
How do you feel about it yourself?
– I personally think that of course it can be tough not having enough money, but it shouldn’t go so far that it leads to violence.
Trump and Harris entice with generous proposals
Both Kamala Harris and Donald Trump have tried to attract voters with generous proposals regarding the economy.
For example, Donald Trump has promised tax cuts, which are mainly aimed at companies and the wealthier Americans. The Republican candidate also wants to abolish the tax on tips, overtime and introduce import tariffs to create more domestic jobs.
The Democrats’ Kamala Harris has both promised more support for families with children and first-time home buyers – as well as a price cap on certain goods.
Calling the proposals “bullshit”
Shantora Covington, who previously voted for Donald Trump, is not sure who she sees as the best candidate in this election, calling the various proposals “bullshit.”
– I am a Donald Trump friend, but mostly because I like how he was as a businessman. But he belongs to the wealthy, how can he know what we need? He doesn’t. He’s never been in our situation, never been in an area like this. He has never faced what we do, not being able to pay his bills, she says.
Even Shay Horton says she’s not sure the presidential election will make a difference to her family financially.
– I usually vote, but I do not intend to do so this time. I don’t think they are good people. I don’t think they will do anything other than make it worse for us who are already having a tough time, she says.