Harris introduces 'Opportunity Task Force' for Puerto Rico
In a direct-to-camera video posted on X, Harris announced her intention to create a new "Opportunity Task Force" for Puerto Rico should she win the election. It would involve the federal government working "with the private sector, with nonprofits and community leaders, to foster economic growth and create thousands of new, good paying jobs in Puerto Rico."
Harris also slammed Trump for how he handled Hurricane Maria in 2017. Trump infamously tossed paper towels into a crowd of Puerto Ricans at a relief center in the hurricane-ravaged territory after Maria hit. Harris accused the former president of "abandoning the island."
She promised to "cut red tape" so that the island can "urgently” rebuild and modernize the island's energy grid.
On Sunday, Harris visited Freddy & Tony's Restaurant, a Puerto Rican restaurant in Philadelphia, where she also discussed her new task force.
On Friday, Harris’ campaign released a new ad titled "Recuerdo" (memory) with singer Marc Anthony blasting Trump over how he handled Maria.
In the minute-long spot, Anthony, who is of Puerto Rican descent, says he remembers Trump's actions and the rest of America should as well.
"I remember after Hurricane Maria devastated our island, Trump blocked billions in relief while thousands died,” Martin says in the ad. “I remember when our families lacked clean water and electricity, Trump threw paper towels and called Puerto Rico 'dirty and poor.'”
“Recuerdo” will air nationally on Telemundo and WAPA America TV during Sunday’s coverage of the 2024 Billboard Latin Music Awards, and in Pennsylvania on Telemundo and Univision.
-ABC News’ Gabriella Abdul-Hakim, Fritz Farrow and Will McDuffie