Vice President Kamala Harris has reiterated her stance against banning fracking, despite her previous support for a ban. In her first interview since becoming the Democratic presidential nominee, Harris told CNN that she "would not ban fracking" if elected.
Vice President Kamala Harris has doubled down on her opposition to a fracking ban, emphasizing her commitment to the position she held during the 2020 election. In her first interview since becoming the Democratic presidential nominee, Harris told CNN that she would "not ban fracking" if elected.
This statement marks a reaffirmation of her previous position, which had previously shifted. Before dropping out of the 2019 presidential race and joining then-candidate Joe Biden's ticket, Harris had advocated for a ban on fracking.
Kamala Harris Stands Firm: No Ban on Fracking
However, in 2020, as Biden's vice presidential running mate, Harris stated that she would not ban fracking. This position was further reiterated in her recent CNN interview, where she emphasized that her stance had not changed since the 2020 election.
Harris's consistency on this issue is in contrast to her handling of other policy areas, where she has faced criticism for evolving positions. However, she has remained steadfast in her opposition to a fracking ban, despite pressure from environmental activists.
Kamala Harris Stands Firm: No Ban on Fracking
In the interview, Harris defended her position by citing the importance of energy security and job creation. She highlighted the Inflation Reduction Act, which she said has invested over $1 trillion in clean energy initiatives and created 300,000 new clean energy jobs.
Harris's position aligns with that of President Biden, who has also stated that he will not ban fracking. This stance has drawn criticism from some Democrats, who argue that fracking harms the environment and contributes to climate change.
Kamala Harris Stands Firm: No Ban on Fracking
However, Harris and Biden have argued that fracking is an important source of energy and jobs, especially in states like Pennsylvania and Ohio. They have maintained that their focus is on promoting clean energy while ensuring a smooth transition away from fossil fuels.
Harris's interview was her first sit-down interview with the media since Biden dropped out of the race last month. She has faced criticism for avoiding the media, with her last press conference occurring 39 days ago.
Kamala Harris Stands Firm: No Ban on Fracking
Despite the criticism, Harris remains the presumptive Democratic nominee and is expected to formally accept her party's nomination at the Democratic National Convention next week.
