This week, deals reporter James Fontanella-Khan discusses the surprising financial backing Kamala Harris garnered from Wall Street, leading to a strategic push against Biden. He explains the intense courtship between Harris and financial power players, exploring how her background as a public prosecutor ignited interest. The conversation also touches on Wall Street’s delicate dance with Big Tech and the implications for economic policy. Plus, there's a lively debate on investment strategies, featuring insights about McDonald's and Bill Ackman's latest moves.
Wall Street's support for Kamala Harris reflects its desire for pro-business policies amidst frustrations with Biden's anti-business stance.
Harris is perceived as a stabilizing force for the financial community, offering open-mindedness on critical issues like corporate tax rates and mergers.
Deep dives
The Political Dynamics of Wall Street
Democrats and Republicans share a vested interest in strengthening the retirement savings system, as both parties recognize its electoral importance. Wall Street historically leans Democratic but harbors a desire for pro-business policies, leading to frustration with Biden's perceived anti-business stance. This frustration has prompted prominent Wall Street figures to express the need for a change in leadership, particularly eyeing potential candidates like Kamala Harris, who is viewed as more business-friendly. The pressure from Wall Street culminates in significant influence over the Democratic Party's direction and potential candidate selection.
Kamala Harris: A Business-Friendly Candidate
Kamala Harris is regarded by Wall Street as a stabilizing force, valued for her historical ties to the financial community and her ability to navigate the complexities of politics. With previous support from prominent Wall Street figures, her candidacy is seen as a pathway to restore a more business-friendly Democratic agenda. Harris's reputation for being grounded and open to discussions with communities such as the crypto sector further enhances her appeal. This open-mindedness positions her as a practical alternative to Biden, especially concerning issues related to mergers and corporate tax rates.
Wall Street's Complex Relationship with Trump
Historically, Wall Street financiers have leaned Democratic but are often swayed by the allure of lower taxes and pro-business policies associated with Trump. Despite a consideration among some Wall Street figures to support Trump due to his tax policies, the uncertainty and risks presented by his political maneuvers deter full endorsement. Furthermore, Trump's choice of J.D. Vance as a potential running mate has added to Wall Street's apprehension, as Vance is known for his critical views on the financial industry. Ultimately, the relationship underscores Wall Street's preference for stability and familiarity, which makes Harris a more favorable choice in the current political landscape.
Wall Street withheld tens of millions of dollars in campaign financing to pressure US President Joe Biden to withdraw from November’s election and endorse Kamala Harris. And it worked. But how did Wall Street get so interested in a public prosecutor from San Francisco? And what do financiers hope she’ll bring to the table? Today on the show, deals reporter James Fontanella-Khan walks Robert Armstrong through the whirlwind courtship between Harris and big money. Also, we short Bill Ackman and go long McDonald's.