Presidential hopeful Kamala Harris's past support for a fracking ban has drawn criticism from Republicans and the natural gas industry, particularly in swing states like Pennsylvania where the industry supports thousands of jobs.
As the United States grapples with rising energy costs and geopolitical uncertainty, the Biden administration has come under fire for its focus on climate agenda that has stifled domestic fossil fuel production. One key issue in this debate has become the practice of fracking, which has revolutionized the oil and gas industry and made the US nearly energy independent.
Fracking, which involves injecting water into shale rock at high pressure to extract natural gas, has propelled the US to become a global energy leader. Proponents argue that fracking is critical for the nation's economic security and reduces carbon emissions by displacing coal.
Banning Fracking Could Devastate Rust Belt Economies and Hurt American Workers
However, supporters of a fracking ban, such as Vice President Kamala Harris, cite concerns about environmental pollution and health risks. They contend that fracking contaminates drinking water, pollutes air, and releases greenhouse gases.
The debate over fracking has taken on particular significance in swing states like Pennsylvania, where the natural gas industry employs tens of thousands of workers. The state is the second-largest natural gas producer in the US, and its fossil fuel industry supports over 50,000 jobs.
Banning Fracking Could Devastate Rust Belt Economies and Hurt American Workers
Critics of a fracking ban, such as Pennsylvania state Rep. Rob Mercuri, argue that it would devastate the state's economy and increase energy costs for consumers. They believe that fracking provides reliable and affordable energy, creating jobs and fueling economic growth.
Opponents, such as former acting Director of the United States National Intelligence Ric Grenell, counter that fracking poses serious environmental risks and is incompatible with the fight against climate change. They argue that the transition to renewable energy sources is necessary to protect public health and the planet.
Banning Fracking Could Devastate Rust Belt Economies and Hurt American Workers
The fracking debate is likely to remain a contentious issue in the lead-up to the 2024 presidential election. The outcome of the debate will have significant implications for American energy policy, economic growth, and environmental protection.
According to the American Petroleum Institute, over 95% of new wells use hydraulic fracking, a technique that has contributed to a sharp drop in carbon dioxide emissions in recent years. However, opponents argue that fracking also releases greenhouse gases and exacerbates global warming.
Banning Fracking Could Devastate Rust Belt Economies and Hurt American Workers
Overall, the fossil fuel industry in Pennsylvania supports about 50,547 jobs, a 2021 report published by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection showed. Pennsylvania, a key swing state in the 2024 election, is the second-largest producer of natural gas in the US behind only Texas.
The debate over fracking is expected to continue in the coming months and years, as the Biden administration and Congress grapple with the need to balance energy security, environmental concerns, and economic growth. The outcome of this debate will have significant implications for the future of the American energy landscape.
