Vice President Kamala Harris has abandoned her previous support for a fracking ban, a shift in position that has drawn criticism from former President Donald Trump, who has sought to portray Harris as a "radical liberal."
Vice President Kamala Harris has undergone a notable change in her stance on fracking, a move that has sparked controversy and drawn criticism from former President Donald Trump.
During her presidential campaign in 2019, Harris unequivocally expressed her support for banning fracking. "There's no question I'm in favor of banning fracking," she declared during a CNN town hall. Harris also co-sponsored the Green New Deal, a proposal that included a ban on fracking.
Harris Reverses Stance on Fracking, Facing Criticism from Trump
However, Harris's position has since evolved. On Friday, her campaign announced that she no longer supports a fracking ban. This shift has been met with disapproval from environmental groups and progressive Democrats, who view fracking as harmful to the environment.
Trump has seized on this change in stance, labeling Harris as a "more left than Bernie Sanders" and a "radical left lunatic." Trump has argued that Harris's opposition to fracking would lead to inflated energy costs and job losses.
Harris Reverses Stance on Fracking, Facing Criticism from Trump
Harris's campaign has dismissed Trump's accusations, stating that his rhetoric is an attempt to distract from his own policies. The campaign has highlighted the Biden-Harris administration's passage of legislation to address climate change and the creation of energy jobs.
Despite this, Trump continues to paint Harris as a "radical liberal," highlighting her support for policies such as Medicare for All and the Green New Deal. Trump's remarks have been echoed by Republican congressional leaders, who have claimed that Harris is "out of touch with their voters."
Harris Reverses Stance on Fracking, Facing Criticism from Trump
Harris's reversal on fracking reflects a broader moderation of her positions since joining President Joe Biden's ticket. During her 2019 presidential campaign, Harris embraced more progressive policies, but has since shifted to a more moderate stance.
Trump's attacks on Harris's fracking position are part of a larger effort to define her as too liberal for the general electorate. Trump has consistently sought to portray Harris as a "radical" and "far-left," while promoting himself as a moderate alternative.
Harris Reverses Stance on Fracking, Facing Criticism from Trump
It remains to be seen how Harris's change in stance on fracking will impact her political trajectory. Environmental groups and progressive Democrats have expressed disappointment, while Trump and Republicans have seized on it as an opportunity to attack her. The issue of fracking and Harris's position on it are likely to be key factors in the 2024 presidential election.
