The right to vote is one of the most fundamental rights of U.S. citizens. Every four years, in the presidential election, Americans elect their President and Vice President. It’s more than just a choice of leaders—it's a referendum on the current administration’s policies and actions. With the 2024 Presidential election on the horizon, it’s essential to look back at the Biden-Harris administration's record and see where the country stands. Many Americans, regardless of party, feel that the country isn’t heading in the right direction.

The Biden-Harris administration took office on January 20, 2020, with a list of promises and big plans. Now, almost four years later, let’s see where things actually are.

Inflation has reached new heights, with everyday essentials like food and gas costing much more. Interest rates are close to 7%, almost double what they were in 2019, making it hard for young Americans to afford homes. Meanwhile, about 21 million undocumented migrants have crossed the border since 2020, with roughly 40,000 of them being convicted criminals. Many of these individuals are in sanctuary states such as New York, Illinois, California, New Jersey, and Massachusetts. Some have been involved in criminal activities, including the tragic case of Laken Riley, a Georgia nursing student reportedly killed by an undocumented migrant in 2022. Even New York City Mayor Eric Adams has openly questioned the Biden administration’s handling of immigration, stating that the city is overwhelmed by the influx.

During these times, a strong law enforcement presence is needed to keep our communities safe. However, the push by some left-wing groups to "defund the police" has impacted police morale and, by extension, public safety. This effect is evident in the rising crime rates, especially in many Democratic-led states and cities over recent years.

On the global stage, America’s influence has significantly diminished. The abrupt U.S. troop withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021 left our Afghan allies feeling abandoned and damaged America’s reputation among our global allies.

The ongoing Israel-Hamas war has highlighted the current administration’s struggles with foreign diplomacy. Despite Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s efforts for peace, no ceasefire has been reached, and the threat of a larger conflict involving Iran looms over the region.

It is worth noting that the Biden administration had information in early 2021 suggesting that Russia might invade Ukraine by March. In an effort to prevent the invasion, Biden-Harris proposed a U.S.-Russia summit which ultimately got rejected by Russians. Now, as the war approaches its third year, a resolution remains out of sight. 

Meanwhile, China’s claims over Taiwan, a key U.S. ally, raise similar concerns, with some fearing that any Chinese aggression toward Taiwan could draw the U.S. into a major conflict with China. North Korea continues to test long-range missiles in support of its ally, Russia and joining war against Ukraine. Yemen’s Houthi rebels are launching anti-ship missiles over the Red Sea disrupting maritime trade. So far, they have destroyed 34 commercial ships. 

As we approach the 2024 election, America needs a leader who can revive the economy and restore the nation’s standing on the global stage. A Kamala Harris presidency would likely extend the unmet promises of the Biden-Harris administration, focusing heavily on government programs with little attention to strengthening the economy. Harris has no clear plan to address illegal border crossings; in fact, she previously advocated for decriminalizing unauthorized entry and reducing funding for immigrant detention. These shifting positions demand an explanation.

Former President Donald Trump, by contrast, has proposed a vision aimed at economic recovery and security. His platform emphasizes energy independence, reducing government spending, cutting excessive regulations, and achieving peace through strength. 

Trump’s immigration plan includes securing the border, enforcing immigration laws, and shifting to a merit-based immigration system. His “America First” approach also includes plans to boost housing affordability by opening federal lands for development, providing tax incentives for first-time buyers, and cutting unnecessary regulations. 

On the foreign policy front, Trump's plan is centered around core American values, starting with protecting our Homeland, our People, our Borders, our Great American Flag, and our Rights under God. 

To my fellow Indian-Americans: this country has given us so much. America welcomed us, supported us, and gave us the chance to succeed. Now, it’s our turn to protect what is ours. Let’s come together and Make America Great Again.

VINOD KEARKE, ESQ.