Black Americans once again find themselves at the center of political debates. With Vice President Kamala Harris on the Democratic ticket and former President Donald Trump running for the Republican nomination, the importance of the Black vote has intensified. Yet, amid the emphasis on race and identity, it is crucial for Black Americans to make their decision based on principles, policy, and long-term benefits rather than identity politics alone.
Identity politics, where voting decisions are based on race, gender, or other aspects of identity, can be both empowering and limiting. It can create a sense of solidarity within a group, offering representation to those who have historically been marginalized. However, focusing solely on identity often obscures the more pressing issues of policy and governance. For Black Americans, voting based purely on the racial identity of a candidate, whether Harris or Trump, risks falling into this trap.
Kamala Harris, as the first Black and South Asian female vice president, represents a historic achievement for many minority groups. Her identity alone, however, should not be the sole reason Black Americans support her. Her policy record and ability to address critical issues facing the Black community—such as economic inequality, criminal justice reform, and health disparities—should be paramount.
Similarly, some Black Americans have voiced support for Trump, pointing to his administration’s focus on economic empowerment zones, criminal justice reform (like the First Step Act), and his rhetoric about reducing taxes and regulation. However, endorsing Trump simply as a reaction to the Democratic Party’s reliance on identity politics would also be shortsighted. His policies should be examined critically, especially in light of his administration’s handling of race relations and the ongoing social justice debates.
When casting their ballots, Black Americans must critically evaluate which candidate aligns best with their values and goals. Some key areas to consider include:
The wealth gap between Black and white Americans remains a significant issue. Both Harris and Trump have proposed different solutions. Voters should consider which candidate’s economic policies—whether it’s Harris’ support for expanding social safety nets or Trump’s tax cuts and deregulation—will help narrow this gap and promote long-term economic mobility.
While both candidates have addressed criminal justice reform, their approaches differ. Harris has promoted reforms like ending cash bail and investing in reentry programs, while Trump touts his signing of the First Step Act, aimed at reducing prison sentences for nonviolent offenders. Black voters must weigh which policies will most effectively tackle mass incarceration and systemic injustices in the criminal justice system.
Access to quality healthcare and education continues to disproportionately affect Black Americans. Harris has advocated for expanded access to affordable healthcare and debt-free college education, while Trump has focused on school choice and reducing healthcare regulation. Voters should assess which approach better aligns with their needs and values.
This is a key issue for many Black voters. Harris has emphasized policies to combat racial discrimination, protect voting rights, and support historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). Trump’s administration also funded HBCUs, but his broader stance on civil rights issues has been divisive, especially given his handling of racial protests during his presidency. Black Americans must decide which candidate they trust to advance civil rights and tackle institutional racism.
Moving Beyond Symbolism
Both Harris and Trump have made efforts to appeal to Black voters. However, as tempting as it may be to support a candidate based on race or identity, Black Americans must focus on who will deliver the most tangible benefits. Voting based on principles—not identity—ensures that political decisions are driven by long-term interests, policies, and visions for progress rather than surface-level representation.
In the end, what matters most for Black Americans is how the next administration will address the structural challenges they face. Whether it’s Harris or Trump, the Black community should prioritize policy substance over symbolic representation, demanding leadership that will advance their rights and prosperity in meaningful ways. Only by voting on principles can they ensure that their interests are genuinely and effectively represented in the years to come.