Vice President Kamala Harris' "Opportunity Agenda for Black Men" is an example of "racism," Sen. Rick Scott, R-Fla., said Wednesday on "The Hugh Hewitt Show."
Earlier in the week, Harris touted the initiative, with the campaign saying Black men have "long been denied the tools that would allow them to grow their wealth, get a good-paying job, and support their loved ones." The plan offers incentives such as providing $1 million loans to Black entrepreneurs that are fully forgivable, legalizing recreational marijuana, and helping Black Americans succeed in the cannabis industry.
The move by the Harris camp comes as recent polling suggests Black men may no longer be a reliable voting demographic for the Democrats.
Last week, The New York Times reported that Harris is earning only 78% support among Black voters compared to 92% in 2016. Black support for the Republican presidential candidate has more than doubled since 2016 and currently stands at 15%.
Hewitt asked Scott about Harris' new campaign program, saying, "She's going to direct the Small Business Association to give Black Americans special treatment. Isn't that as unconstitutional as the day is long?"
"I think that's called racism," Scott answered. "That's racism. What I tell people in my state is I'm blessed because I live in this country. I don't care the color of your skin or where you started. You need to have a chance to live the dream. That's my job: Make sure you have a shot to live the dream.
"That's why I campaigned. That's why I run. That's what I believe in. It's better for everybody in this country."
James Morley III ✉
James Morley III is a writer with more than two decades of experience in entertainment, travel, technology, and science and nature.
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