What is fracking

Fracking: The Election Drama You Didn’t Know You Needed!

Catch the latest buzz on fracking as Kamala Harris and Donald Trump spar in the political arena!

In the heated landscape of U.S. politics, few topics ignite as fierce a debate as fracking, with its crucial role in the energy sector. Recently, Vice President Kamala Harris made headlines during a presidential debate where she clarified her position on fracking—an issue she once vehemently opposed. In an unexpected pivot from her earlier stance, Harris expressed that a ban on fracking is off the table as the U.S. continues to grapple with its energy policy moving forward. As the debate unfolded, Trump seized the opportunity to paint Harris's shift as a reversal, igniting widespread discussion about energy policies crucial to Pennsylvania, a state heavily influenced by the natural gas industry.

Advocates of fracking highlight its importance in ensuring a steady energy supply and bolstering the economy, particularly in regions like Pennsylvania, where over 2000 wells contribute both jobs and energy to the local community. The recent announcement from CNX Resources, a Pittsburgh-based natural gas company, showcased a new environmental monitoring initiative as part of the Justice40 efforts, demonstrating an attempt to showcase the positive impacts of fracking alongside environmental considerations. However, many environmental groups continue to warn against the long-term impacts of fracking, arguing that while it may fuel economic growth, it poses risks to water supplies and the planet’s climate.

In the debate, the contrasting views of Harris and Trump were palpable. Harris's nuanced approach reflects the evolving nature of energy policies in the Biden administration, focusing on a diversified energy portfolio while ensuring that fracking remains a part of it. This sparks questions among voters: can we have our cake and eat it too? Is it possible to advance clean energy goals while relying on fracking? Meanwhile, Trump’s declarations of a commitment to fossil fuels find both supporters and detractors, further polarizing the electorate.

As this fracking saga unfolds, it’s clear that the topic will remain at the center of political discourse as the election nears. In the hotly contested battleground of Pennsylvania, the stakes are high. With more than 20% of the nation's natural gas supply flowing from this state, Gasland’s blockbuster documentary still looms large in the minds of many voters, illustrating the environmental risks associated with fracking. The 2020 election is a pivotal moment for the energy sector, and it may very well decide the future of fracking in America.

Interestingly, did you know that fracking, or hydraulic fracturing, has been around since the 1940s? It was first developed to increase oil production during World War II! Additionally, Pennsylvania's Marcellus Shale is one of the largest natural gas reserves in the United States, and its production subsequently shaped local economies, making it a crucial talking point in any political arena involving energy policies.