Kamala Harris, the US presidential candidate, criticised House Speaker Mike Johnson for suggesting that Republicans might seek to repeal the CHIPS and Science Act if they regain control of Congress. The CHIPS Act, signed into law in August 2022, aims to revitalise US microchip manufacturing through significant financial investment. During a recent campaign event, Harris labelled Johnson’s remarks as indicative of a broader Republican agenda to dismantle popular programs that support economic growth and job creation.
Johnson’s comments, made while campaigning for a GOP candidate in New York, have sparked backlash from Democrats who emphasise the importance of the CHIPS Act in fostering job creation. The law is credited with generating hundreds of billions in investments and supporting approximately 115,000 jobs across the country. Although Johnson initially indicated that Republicans ‘probably will’ attempt to repeal the act, he later attempted to clarify that their goal would instead be to streamline it.
As the political landscape heats up, Harris continues to advocate for manufacturing investments as a cornerstone of her economic plans, emphasising the importance of maintaining support for the CHIPS Act. The legislation is seen as vital for strengthening the US semiconductor industry and ensuring long-term economic stability. With crucial elections approaching, both parties are vying for the support of working-class voters, particularly in regions benefiting from manufacturing jobs.