Kamala Harris Reaffirms Support for Fracking Amidst Campaign for Presidency

Vice President Kamala Harris has stated that she would not ban fracking if elected president, marking a notable shift from her earlier opposition to the process used to produce the majority of the United States’ oil and gas.

In a recent CNN interview, Harris declared, “As vice president, I did not ban fracking. As president, I will not ban fracking.” This statement is particularly significant as it comes during her campaign as the Democratic nominee.

The issue of fracking is crucial for the Harris campaign, especially in Pennsylvania, the second-largest U.S. producer of natural gas and a key swing state. Harris’ evolving stance has provided ammunition for her Republican opponent, Donald Trump, who has criticized her views as part of a radical energy policy that could jeopardize jobs and increase gasoline prices.

Harris emphasized that the United States can achieve its climate goals without a fracking ban, referencing the clean energy incentives included in the Inflation Reduction Act. She noted that the legislation has spurred significant investments in renewable energy technologies.

Questions regarding her position began at a CNN forum during her initial 2019 presidential campaign when she expressed strong support for a fracking ban. As her campaign progressed, she moderated her stance, advocating for stricter regulations instead.

In her recent interview, Harris also highlighted her role in the Inflation Reduction Act, which included provisions to promote oil and gas leasing on federal lands and waters, stating, “I cast the tie-breaking vote that actually increased leases for fracking as vice president.”

Fracking involves injecting water, sand, and chemicals deep into the earth to extract oil and gas, a technique responsible for 95% of U.S. oil and gas production. Despite its prevalence, the process faces significant opposition from environmental groups concerned about its impact on groundwater.

Harris’ statements come as recent polls indicate positive momentum for her campaign, showcasing an increase in voter support.