Special Poll
Following the debate, Harris also received public endorsements from others, including pop star Taylor Swift, who shared her support on Instagram.
Historical Endorsement:
For only the second time in its 179-year history, Scientific American has made a presidential endorsement, officially supporting Democratic candidate Kamala Harris.
The Endorsement:
On Monday, the magazine’s headline read, “Vote for Kamala Harris to Support Science, Health, and the Environment.” The first endorsement came in 2020 when Scientific American backed Joe Biden.
The Editors’ Perspective:
The editors framed the election as a choice between two vastly different futures: one led by Harris, which values science and evidence, and another led by Trump, who they believe threatens public health and rejects facts in favor of conspiracies.
Harris’ Record:
The magazine cited Harris’s work as vice president, senator, and presidential candidate, while contrasting it with what they described as Trump’s “disastrous” record during his presidency.
Healthcare Policy:
A major focus of the article was healthcare. The editors praised the Biden-Harris administration for expanding the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which increased health insurance eligibility. While Harris has promised to further expand healthcare coverage, Trump has vowed to repeal the ACA without providing a clear replacement plan, only stating he has “concepts” of a new approach.
Debate Highlights:
The endorsement also referenced the September 10 presidential debate, where Harris and Trump faced off. The article claimed that Harris won the debate, a view shared by many across the political spectrum, including some Trump allies.
During the debate, Trump falsely claimed that some states allow abortions in the ninth month of pregnancy, calling it “execution after birth.” Scientific American responded, clarifying that no state permits this.
Reproductive Rights:
Harris was praised for her strong stance on reproductive rights, including her commitment to improving access to abortion care. As a senator, she co-sponsored legislation aimed at reducing maternal mortality rates, further emphasizing her focus on healthcare for women.
Technology Policy:
The magazine also highlighted Harris’s role in advancing technology policy, particularly through the CHIPS and Science Act, which was signed into law by Biden in 2022. The act is credited with boosting semiconductor production and research in the U.S., creating more jobs in the sector.
Concerns About Trump’s Second Term:
The editors expressed concern that a second Trump administration would quickly undo these advancements, pointing to his Project 2025 agenda, which they argue would roll back safeguards on artificial intelligence (AI). The magazine warned that this could negatively affect important systems, such as criminal justice and healthcare, without proper oversight.
Final Appeal:
In conclusion, Scientific American emphasized that the future of the U.S. hinges on this election, urging readers to vote for Kamala Harris to ensure progress in science, health, and technology.
Additional Endorsements:
Following the debate, Harris also received public endorsements from others, including pop star Taylor Swift, who shared her support on Instagram.