Kamala Harris, the Vice President of the United States, has been promoting regulations aimed at drastically increasing the production and sales of electric vehicles in the country. Despite claiming to be an automotive libertarian, Harris supports mandates that would make electric cars make up a majority of new vehicles sold by 2032. The Biden-Harris administration is using emission limits on carmakers to enforce these regulations, with penalties for companies that do not comply. This has led to concerns about government overreach and the restriction of consumer choice in the car market.
Harris’ previous support for even more ambitious plans, such as phasing out gas-powered cars completely by 2040, highlights her shift towards more moderate positions ahead of the 2024 campaign. Critics argue that forcing consumers to switch to electric vehicles may not be feasible or desirable, given the current limitations in charging infrastructure and consumer preferences. The push towards electric vehicles at the expense of gas-powered cars raises questions about the role of government in dictating automotive choices.
Rich Lowry, editor in chief of the National Review, criticizes the Biden-Harris administration’s approach to the automotive industry, questioning the need for such strict mandates and the impact on consumer freedom. Lowry argues that market forces should determine the transition to electric vehicles, rather than government interventions and penalties for non-compliance. The debate over the future of the car market reflects broader tensions between regulation and individual choice.
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