Fracking, a divisive topic in American energy policy, resurfaced prominently during a recent presidential debate between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump. The two political figures exchanged views on the future of this fossil fuel extraction technique, underscoring its importance to voters in key swing states like Pennsylvania.
Fracking, or hydraulic fracturing, involves drilling into deep underground shale and injecting a mixture of water, chemicals, and sand to extract oil and gas. This method has revolutionized the U.S. energy industry, unlocking vast reserves across 20 states, including Pennsylvania and Texas. Today, fracking is the dominant oil and gas extraction technique in the U.S., contributing to record-breaking energy production. However, its environmental and health impacts have sparked heated debates.
Critics highlight fracking’s significant contribution to climate change. The process releases methane, a potent greenhouse gas, and studies suggest that emissions are frequently underreported. Additionally, fracking poses risks to drinking water supplies and has been linked to various health problems in communities near wells, including headaches, nosebleeds, and even higher rates of cancer in children.
Supporters of fracking argue that it plays a crucial role in maintaining U.S. energy independence. Gas is often touted as a “bridge fuel” that emits fewer greenhouse gases than coal. Nevertheless, the practice’s environmental toll and the shift toward renewable energy sources are pushing fracking into a culture war between political factions.
The 2024 presidential election has heightened the tension around fracking. Trump continues to back the fossil fuel industry, claiming that ending fracking would cripple the economy. In contrast, Harris, despite previously advocating for a ban, has moderated her stance, supporting a diversified energy mix and defending the Inflation Reduction Act, which balances green energy investments with new fracking leases.
As fracking jobs dwindle and clean energy employment rises—especially in Pennsylvania—voters are torn between economic interests and environmental concerns. With green policies on the rise, the future of fracking in the U.S. remains uncertain, but it’s clear the issue will remain central to the 2024 election debates.