In a historic endorsement, Scientific American has declared its support for Vice President Kamala Harris in the 2024 presidential race, marking only the second time in its 179-year history that it has endorsed a candidate. The magazine’s announcement follows the recent debate between Harris and Donald Trump, intensifying the political discourse ahead of the November 5 elections.
With a readership of six million worldwide, the magazine highlights Harris’s commitment to advancing reproductive rights, tackling climate change, and improving healthcare. In an op-ed titled “Vote for Kamala Harris to Support Science, Health and the Environment,” the editors emphasized her reliance on facts and logic to offer greater opportunities for the U.S.
The endorsement sharply contrasts with Trump’s record during his presidency, which the magazine described as “disastrous.” The editors compared the two candidates’ policies across several critical areas:
- Healthcare: While Trump proposed cuts to Medicare and Medicaid, Harris aims to expand access by extending the Affordable Care Act, funded through taxes on the wealthy.
- Reproductive Rights: Trump has spread misinformation regarding abortion and supported the removal of federal protections. In contrast, Harris has pledged to enhance accessibility and safeguard reproductive rights.
- Climate Change: Trump has dismissed climate change as a “hoax” and dismantled over 100 environmental policies. Harris, however, plans to continue the Biden administration’s efforts to reduce emissions and promote clean energy.
The editorial also noted Harris’s growing support from influential figures, including Taylor Swift, whose endorsement sparked controversy with Trump. Following the recent debate, the magazine asserted that many from diverse political backgrounds, including some of Trump’s former allies, believe Harris emerged victorious.
The op-ed pointed out Trump’s controversial remarks during the debate regarding abortion, where he inaccurately claimed that some states allow for abortions up until the ninth month, labeling it “execution after birth.”
With this endorsement, Scientific American aims to guide voters toward a candidate they believe will prioritize science, health, and the environment in the upcoming election.
