Fracking Battles and Oil Rights: Harris and Trump Face Off on Energy Tonight
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It's no longer the primaries. Tonight, the two U.S. presidential candidates will face off in a debate hosted by ABC, and neither is expected to advocate for radical policies, especially regarding energy.
The Fracking Dilemma
Fracking will undoubtedly be a contentious topic during the debate, particularly as questions arise about the Vice President's shifting stance on the issue.
In a 2019 CNN town hall, Kamala Harris stated, "There’s no question I’m in favor of banning fracking. Yes. And starting with what we can do on Day 1 around public lands, and then there has to be legislation. But yeah, and this is something I’ve taken on in California. I have a history of working on this issue.” She further asserted her position against then-candidate Biden, claiming, “Joe Biden will not ban fracking. That is a fact.”
However, in a recent interview with CNN, Harris indicated a more centrist approach since her presidential campaign. "What I have seen is that we can grow, and we can increase a clean energy economy without banning fracking," she told Dana Bash.
Harris's stance on fracking may reveal the voter demographics she is trying to attract tonight. Some analysts believe she can maintain her strong "ban fracking" stance without losing support in Pennsylvania, while others argue that adhering to this position could alienate key voters crucial for her November campaign.
Both candidates have largely consolidated their party bases, with the focus now shifting to independent voters.
Permitting Challenges
The oil and gas industry will closely monitor the debate for insights into each candidate's views on the permitting processes that currently hinder significant projects, such as pipelines.
Energy Security Issues
Other energy topics expected to arise include American energy security in relation to the pause on LNG export projects, subsidies for electric vehicles, emissions regulations affecting consumer choices, and ongoing lawsuits against oil companies.
America First Energy Policies
Former President Donald Trump is likely to reiterate energy policies similar to those from his previous campaigns. He would probably lift the pause on LNG export permits and expand the scope of drilling auctions as part of a five-year offshore oil and gas leasing program, advocating for the United States to achieve the lowest energy and electricity costs in the world.
By Julianne Geiger for Oilprice.com