A series on the U.S. presidential election, “From the field in battleground states.” In Western Nevada, the Democratic Party’s victory since 2008 is in jeopardy over the main issue of issue, the economy.
Nevada is home to the casino town of Las Vegas. It is said that people engaged in the service industry account for more than 30% of total employment.
Trump Tower stands in the center of town. Opinion polls in Nevada show former President Trump with a slight lead over Vice President Harris, signaling a yellow light for the Democratic Party’s continued victory in Nevada since 2008.
The background is economic issues.
reporter
“Even though the sun is very strong in Nevada this time of year, some homeless people are sheltering in place on these election billboards that are all over the city.”
homeless man
“(Q. How is your life?) It’s terrible. No one will help me. I know this isn’t what the campaign signs are for, but I can’t help it.”
Nevada has the worst unemployment rate out of the 50 states in the United States. 40% of voters cite the economy as their top issue.
For example, there is a tax on tips, which are an important source of income for people working in the service industry in the United States. In June, Trump announced a policy to abolish this.
Republican former President Trump
“If I become president, I will abolish the tax on tips.”
In contrast, Mr. Harris.
Democratic Party Vice President Harris
“Raise the minimum wage and abolish the tax on tips!”
In addition to abolishing taxes, Harris appealed to voters by calling for an increase in the minimum wage.
In the city, voters are worried about soaring prices. Mr. Barajas runs five restaurants in the suburbs of Las Vegas. Mr. Barajas supports Mr. Trump because he believes that Mr. Trump, with his business experience, is the best person to rebuild the economy.
Barajas supports Trump
“Everything was better during the Trump administration. Things have to change. If this situation continues, I will have to close three stores.”
Meanwhile, the state’s largest labor union, which supports the Democratic Party, will use its organizational strength to canvass for votes by going door-to-door.
Regarding the voices that are questioning Mr. Harris’ economic skills.
Labor members supporting Harris
“We don’t know for sure because she’s not president yet. We’ll know when she becomes president.”
With less than a week left until voting day, will the Democratic Party be able to protect its stronghold?
Source: Japanese