Kamala Harris as President of the United States would be historic in every sense. The first woman, and woman of colour, stepping into the oval office would be monumental – and potentially transformative for Australians.
Known for her drive and progressive stance on climate, healthcare, and social equity, Harris’s administration wouldn’t just be groundbreaking for America; it could shake things up globally, sending reverberations across Australian politics, trade, and even cultural values.
If her first year as president mirrors her work as vice president, Australia could find itself facing new opportunities – and challenges – across several key sectors. So what would it mean if Kamala Harris wins the Us Election and becomes “Madam President” for us down under, exactly?
Who is Kamala Harris?
Before her rise to the US vice presidency, Kamala Harris made waves as California’s attorney general, followed by her tenure as a US Senator. She is widely known for her tough stance on justice reform, advocacy for marginalised communities and championing climate change policy – effectively representing a more progressive side of American politics.
As president, it’s likely that Harris will bring that commitment to advancing social and economic policies – and her unique perspective as the daughter of immigrants – into the White House, potentially creating ripple effects in Australia. Here’s how.
Stronger Action On Climate (That Australia Can’t Ignore)
Australia’s climate policies could see fresh momentum under a Harris presidency. With her firm support of the Paris Agreement and her progressive stance on reducing emissions, Harris would likely bring the US back to the global climate table with renewed enthusiasm. In turn, this shift could nudge Australia toward more ambitious climate commitments, especially as renewable energy sources like solar and wind continue to gain traction here.
Harris could put diplomatic pressure on nations like Australia to make more significant strides in clean energy. With Australian public sentiment increasingly leaning toward climate action, this could be a positive push, encouraging policies that go beyond existing measures like carbon offsets and instead focus on systemic change, such as reducing dependence on coal and increasing investment in renewable infrastructure.
The Potential For A Stronger Defence Strategy
Australia and the US have a close defence alliance, but Harris’s nuanced approach to foreign policy may shift the dynamics of the AUKUS pact (a trilateral security partnership between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States), which involves nuclear-powered submarines and Indo-Pacific defence strategies.
Harris’s diplomatic approach to China – an issue central to the AUKUS alliance – might be less hawkish than her predecessor’s, with her aim to balance competition. This could ease concerns that AUKUS entangles Australia in the US and China tensions, while still advancing Australia’s defence strategy amid regional power shifts.
But it’s not all smooth sailing. Harris’s support of American jobs could tighten restrictions on technology and military exports, potentially limiting some of the benefits Australia stands to gain from AUKUS’s technological collaboration.
Implications To Trade And Economy
In her role as a US Senator, Harris was known for her support of American jobs, a stance that could play out in “America First” policies similar to those of her predecessors. For Australia, this could mean an intensified competition in certain markets, particularly if Harris decides to implement stricter trade restrictions. However, knowing her progressive stance, it’s also possible that her policies could open new doors for collaboration in areas like technology, healthcare, and renewables.
This balanced approach could benefit Australian exporters in industries that align with Harris’s agenda, such as renewable energy technologies. Yet it may also put pressure on traditional export sectors – think wine and meat – as tariffs and trade priorities shift. If this were the case, Australia may shift their focus to strengthening economic ties within Asia and Europe, mitigating any short-term impacts from a shift in US trade policy.
A Boost For Social Policies On Gender Equality And Human Rights
With her long-standing support for women’s rights and racial equality, if Kamala Harris wins the US election, it might also inspire similar policy shifts in Australia.
Her administration’s focus on gender parity and workplace diversity could encourage Australia to mirror these policies, especially as global conversations around equity gain traction. Harris’s presidency might even influence public opinion here, fostering a climate where policies supporting women’s rights and social equality see a new wave of acceptance.
This could be especially impactful for Australia’s ongoing conversations about Indigenous rights and representation, as Harris’s approach to inclusivity might highlight areas where Australia could make progress on issues like constitutional recognition and Indigenous health initiatives.
Where Could It Get Complicated
Harris’s progressive domestic agenda may not align perfectly with all aspects of Australia’s political landscape. With her likely focus on “reshoring” US jobs and potentially introducing stricter trade regulations, certain Australian industries might face increased competition.
While Harris’s leadership would undoubtedly bring more cooperation on climate and social policy, Australia’s current economic and political landscape could feel some growing pains. Harris’s stance on China, for example, might encourage Australia to walk a diplomatic tightrope, balancing its own economic ties with China against alliance obligations with the US.
So, What Can Australia Expect If Kamala Harris Wins The Us Election?
A Kamala Harris win could make history in the US, but Australia’s landscape will likely feel the aftershocks. Her progressive focus on climate, social justice, and alliances promises shifts that might encourage Australia to strengthen its own commitments to climate action and social equality. However, as is often the case in global politics, the impacts will be multifaceted – presenting both opportunities for growth and challenges for adaptation.
Whether it’s in climate policies, trade practices, or shared defence goals, a Harris administration would present a mixed bag of change, growth, and potential recalibration. And for Australians, that means being ready to embrace both the opportunities and the challenges that come with a Kamala Harris-led US.
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This article originally appeared on Marie Claire Australia and is republished here with permission.
