Germany Strongly Backs Kamala Harris in US Presidential Election Amid Economic Fears

As the United States heads towards the 2024 presidential election, German politics and public opinion are closely monitoring the developments with a clear preference for Democratic candidate Kamala Harris over Republican contender Donald Trump. This preference is driven by concerns over Trump’s potential impact on Germany’s economy and transatlantic relations.

Political Leaders Favor Harris for Stability and Cooperation

Across the political spectrum in Germany, there is a predominant support for Kamala Harris as the next US president. Prominent figures, including Greens co-leader Omid Nouripour, emphasize that Harris is viewed as a more reliable partner for Germany and Europe. Nouripour highlighted that Harris’s policies are perceived to better support transatlantic cooperation, contrasting sharply with Trump’s previous administration, which often expressed skepticism towards European alliances.

Harris is generally seen as a continuation of transatlantic values, promoting stability and collaborative efforts on global issues. However, some German officials, such as CDU Foreign Minister Norbert Röttgen and Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, caution that Harris may not prioritize European security to the extent needed, potentially altering the dynamics of Germany-US relations.

Economic Concerns Drive Corporate Fear of Trump’s Policies

A significant factor influencing German support for Harris is the economic uncertainty surrounding a potential Trump presidency. A recent survey by the ifo Institute revealed that nearly half of German companies dependent on exports to the US fear negative repercussions if Trump is re-elected. The primary concern revolves around Trump’s aggressive trade policies, including the imposition of punitive tariffs on German goods, particularly in the automotive sector.

German automakers, which are major exporters to the US, are particularly anxious about Trump’s threats to impose tariffs ranging from 10% to 20% on German-made vehicles. Experts from the Institute of the German Economy (IW) warn that such measures could result in economic damages estimated between 120 and 150 billion euros over a four-year period, severely impacting Germany’s economic performance and leading to significant job losses.

Public Opinion Reflects Strong Preference for Harris

Public opinion in Germany mirrors the sentiments of political leaders and business communities, with a clear majority favoring Kamala Harris over Donald Trump. Surveys indicate that approximately two-thirds of Germans support Harris as the US president, while only a small fraction, primarily supporters of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, express hope for Trump’s return.

This widespread preference for Harris is consistent across various demographics, including different age groups, genders, and socio-economic statuses. Younger and more educated individuals show overwhelming support for Harris, recognizing her commitment to maintaining strong international alliances and addressing global challenges such as climate change and security threats.

AfD and Minority Views Support Trump

Despite the dominant support for Harris, the AfD remains a notable exception, with a significant portion of its voters backing Trump. The AfD’s preference for Trump is rooted in his populist rhetoric and promises to reduce German dependency on the US, as well as his stance on issues like immigration and economic nationalism. However, this viewpoint is not widely shared among the broader German populace, highlighting the party’s marginal influence on national consensus.

Implications for Transatlantic Relations and Global Stability

Germany’s preference for Harris over Trump underscores a desire for continuity and cooperation in transatlantic relations. Harris is expected to uphold and potentially strengthen Germany-US ties, fostering collaborative efforts on economic policies, security, and global governance. Conversely, a Trump presidency could introduce significant disruptions, challenging established alliances and introducing protectionist policies that could strain economic and diplomatic relations.

Additionally, Germany’s approach to other global challenges, such as the rising influence of China, is likely to be more aligned with Harris’s administration, which favors multilateralism and strategic partnerships. In contrast, Trump’s more unilateral and confrontational style could complicate Germany’s efforts to navigate the complex geopolitical landscape.

Preparing for Potential Outcomes

German policymakers and businesses are preparing for the various scenarios that could unfold depending on the election outcome. The emphasis is on advocating for policies that support economic stability and protect against potential trade disruptions. There is also a push for the European Union to enhance its defense and economic autonomy, reducing reliance on US policies that could be subject to change under different administrations.

As the election approaches, the German government continues to engage in dialogue with US counterparts, seeking to ensure that economic and security interests are safeguarded regardless of the election result. The focus remains on maintaining strong ties with the US while also bolstering European resilience in the face of global uncertainties.

Moving Forward with Strategic Alliances

Germany’s strategic approach involves balancing its reliance on the US with efforts to strengthen its position within the European Union. By supporting Harris, Germany aims to ensure a stable and cooperative relationship with the US, which is crucial for addressing shared challenges such as climate change, security threats, and economic resilience. At the same time, the country is advocating for greater EU integration in defense and economic policies, aiming to create a more self-sufficient and united Europe.

The outcome of the US presidential election will have far-reaching implications for Germany’s foreign policy and economic strategy. With a clear preference for Harris, Germany signals its commitment to maintaining strong international alliances and promoting a cooperative global order, while also preparing to mitigate risks associated with potential shifts in US policies.