In a notable declaration, over eighty Nobel Prize laureates, including 23 economists, released an open letter asserting that Vice President Kamala Harris’ scientific and economic policies are “vastly superior” to those proposed by former President Donald Trump.
The letter highlights the importance of scientific funding, independent research, and international collaboration, arguing that Trump’s opposition to these elements threatens the United States’ future leadership in crucial areas such as health and economic welfare.
The scholars emphasized that Harris acknowledges the significant contributions of immigrants to scientific advancement, which they believe is essential for the nation’s progress.
The letter reflects the consensus among the laureates that the upcoming presidential election holds immense importance for the future of science and the United States. They argue that Trump’s policies could hinder progress in expanding life expectancy and improving living standards.
In stark contrast, the signatories expressed their strong support for Harris, indicating a belief that her administration would foster a more conducive environment for scientific development and innovation.
Kamala Harris
This isn’t the first instance of experts favoring Harris over Trump in terms of policy. Yale historian Mark Peterson, for example, noted that the principles underlying Harris’ approach would resonate with historical figures like Thomas Jefferson, who valued scientific inquiry and knowledge.
Peterson criticized Trump’s Project 2025, asserting that its rejection of scientific understanding would have been troubling to Jefferson, a founding father committed to enlightenment ideals.
The economists among the Nobel laureates specifically targeted Trump’s economic proposals, criticizing his inclination towards higher tariffs and tax cuts aimed at corporations and wealthy individuals.
They warned that such policies would lead to detrimental consequences, including increased prices, larger deficits, and heightened inequality. In contrast, they praised Harris’ focus on empowering the middle class and promoting entrepreneurship as a pathway to economic growth.
Notable voices in the academic community, such as Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Garry Wills and political theorist Dean Caivano, echoed the sentiments of the economists.
They highlighted Harris’ commitment to building a national economy through government intervention, reminiscent of the approaches taken by historical leaders like George Washington and Thomas Jefferson. The overwhelming support for Harris from the Nobel laureates and scholars underscores a significant divide in vision for the future of science and the economy in the United States.
