As Kamala Harris adapts her stance on fracking, oil advocates remain dubious about the sincerity of her shift. However, they acknowledge the change signifies the increasing importance of fracking as a pivotal political issue.
During her vice-presidential debate, Harris assured Americans that a Biden administration would not implement a ban on fracking. This statement marks a notable adjustment from her earlier position during the Democratic primaries, where she supported banning the controversial drilling practice.
The oil industry has responded with cautious optimism. The new stance suggests that fracking is becoming a “winning issue” among voters, particularly in key battleground states where the industry plays a significant role in local economies and job creation.
Frank Macchiarola, Senior Vice President of Policy, Economics, and Regulatory Affairs at the American Petroleum Institute (API), voiced the industry’s collective skepticism. “We have heard a lot of mixed messages, but we will hold them accountable to their statements now,” he said. Macchiarola emphasized the need for the Biden-Harris team to maintain their commitment to supporting the oil and natural gas sectors.
The Biden-Harris campaign appears to be walking a tightrope. While they strive to attract environmental activists and progressive voters who demand aggressive climate action, they also aim to win over moderate voters in energy-dependent regions.
Harris’ comments align more closely with Joe Biden’s position, which supports fracking with certain restrictions. Biden has proposed ending new oil and gas leases on federal lands and waters but reassures that existing fracking operations would not be affected.
Environmental groups have expressed disappointment with Harris’ shift, arguing it falls short of the progress necessary for addressing climate change. “We cannot afford to backtrack on fracking when the science is clear about its harmful impacts,” said Kassie Siegel, director of the Climate Law Institute at the Center for Biological Diversity.
Despite differing ideologies, the Harris pivot has undeniably brought the fracking debate to the forefront. The conversation is no longer limited to policy experts and activists but has reached a broader audience, compelling voters to consider the future of fracking carefully.
With the election drawing near, the spotlight on fracking highlights its significance in the energy policy dialogue. The oil industry, while cautious, sees the Biden-Harris position as a potential strategic win that acknowledges the complex balance between climate action and economic stability.
As political dynamics evolve, so too does the narrative around fracking. Both proponents and opponents of the practice are watching closely, keenly aware that the decisions made in this election cycle will have long-term implications for energy policy, economic health, and environmental stewardship in the United States.
