Kamala Harris's Fracking Ban Stance Draws Criticism in Rust Belt States

Former Vice President Kamala Harris’s previous support for a fracking ban is facing renewed scrutiny as she emerges as a potential presidential candidate in 2024. Critics argue that her stance on fracking is out of touch with voters in states like Pennsylvania, where the industry supports thousands of jobs.

Washington, D.C. - Former Vice President Kamala Harris's previous support for a fracking ban is facing renewed criticism as she emerges as a potential presidential candidate in 2024. Critics argue that her stance on fracking is out of touch with voters in states like Pennsylvania, where the industry supports thousands of jobs.

In 2019, while running for president, Harris unequivocally stated her support for a fracking ban, citing concerns about its environmental and health impacts. However, her position has come under fire from both Republicans and Democrats in Rust Belt states, who argue that it would devastate their economies.

Kamala Harris's Fracking Ban Stance Draws Criticism in Rust Belt States

"A fracking ban would be disastrous for workers and families," said Republican state Rep. Rob Mercuri, who is running for Congress in Pennsylvania's 17th District. "Clean natural gas production is America’s best opportunity for reliable and affordable energy needs well into the future."

Pennsylvania is the second-largest producer of natural gas in the U.S. behind only Texas, and the industry supports an estimated 50,547 jobs in the state. Critics of a fracking ban argue that it would not only hurt the economy but also increase energy costs for consumers.

Kamala Harris's Fracking Ban Stance Draws Criticism in Rust Belt States

"Banning fracking would cause home electricity costs to skyrocket and devastate Western PA’s natural gas economy," Mercuri said.

Conservatives have also taken to social media to criticize Harris's fracking ban stance. Former acting Director of the United States National Intelligence Ric Grenell posted on Twitter: "Dear Pennsylvania… take it from this Californian, don’t let Kamala Harris anywhere near your energy sources."

Kamala Harris's Fracking Ban Stance Draws Criticism in Rust Belt States

Meanwhile, proponents of fracking argue that it is crucial for U.S. energy independence and has contributed to a reduction in carbon dioxide emissions over the past decade.

"Proponents argue that fracking is critical for the U.S. becoming energy independent and is also the reason for a sharp drop in carbon dioxide emissions over the past decade," the article states.

Kamala Harris's Fracking Ban Stance Draws Criticism in Rust Belt States

Overall, the fracking debate is likely to continue to be a hot-button issue in Rust Belt states like Pennsylvania, where the industry has a significant economic impact. Harris's stance on the issue could potentially hurt her chances with voters in these states if she decides to run for president in 2024.