Vice President Kamala Harris recently reassured the public that she has no plans to ban fracking, despite her previous statements supporting such a ban during her presidential campaign. This shift in stance is likely due to the importance of the natural-gas industry in Pennsylvania, a crucial state in the upcoming election. The industry supports over 123,000 jobs and contributes significantly to the state’s economy.
Workers in western Pennsylvania, like Scott Ivey and Sarah Phillips, have seen firsthand the positive impact of the fracking industry on their communities. Ivey, a service supervisor, highlighted how the industry has brought a surge of money to the region, filling up hotels and supporting local businesses. Phillips, a petroleum engineer, shared how her town has transformed from a desolate area to a thriving community with the help of the industry.
However, despite the benefits they have experienced, both Ivey and Phillips express skepticism about Harris’s commitment to not banning fracking. They fear that increased regulation under the current administration could make it difficult for them to continue working in the industry. Phillips pointed out delays and challenges faced by projects like the Mountain Valley Pipeline due to environmental concerns and government restrictions.
The uncertainty surrounding the future of fracking in Pennsylvania has left many workers feeling uneasy about their livelihoods. While Harris may have reassured the public about her stance on the issue, those directly impacted by the industry remain cautious about what the future holds. As the election approaches, the fate of the fracking industry in Pennsylvania hangs in the balance, with workers like Ivey and Phillips watching closely to see how it will unfold.