Hydraulic fracturing, more commonly known as fracking, has become a hot-button issue in US politics, particularly during election seasons. As a presidential candidate in 2019, VP Kamala Harris proclaimed that she supports a ban on fracking, which critics, particularly in the environmental sector, have applauded. The controversial drilling process, which involves injecting high-pressure fluids into underground rock formations to extract oil and gas, has been a point of contention between politicians, environmentalists, and industry leaders.
The New York state Assembly on Tuesday passed a bill that would expand the state's ban on the controversial drilling process to extract natural gas, showcasing the growing momentum behind anti-fracking movements. The issue has been raised numerous times as the candidates make their final push to reach voters in the battleground state of Pennsylvania, where fracking plays a significant role in the economy.
The bickering over fracking in politics is, in the strictest sense, fairly empty. A US president does not have the power to ban hydraulic fracturing unilaterally, as it falls under the jurisdiction of individual states. However, presidential candidates Donald Trump and Joe Biden tangled again over fracking in Thursday night's debate, extending an argument that has divided the nation along party lines.
Nikki Haley tried to frame Ron DeSantis as opposed to American energy independence because he has banned fracking as Florida's governor, highlighting the complex interplay between energy policies and political agendas. Hydraulic fracturing has been painted as a vital 2020 election issue for key electoral states that have significant oil and gas reserves, with both parties vying for support from voters on either side of the fracking debate.
The environmental impact of fracking is a major priority for voters in a handful of key battleground states, where concerns about water contamination, air pollution, and earthquakes linked to the drilling process have fueled anti-fracking sentiments. A Pitt study concluded there is enough lithium to be extracted from wastewater created through hydraulic fracturing to supply America with a sustainable source of energy, showcasing the potential for innovation in addressing environmental concerns related to fracking.
In the midst of the ongoing fracking debate in US politics, the future of the controversial drilling process remains uncertain. While some advocate for a complete ban on fracking to protect the environment and public health, others argue that it is essential for energy independence and economic growth. As politicians continue to spar over the issue, the fate of fracking in America hangs in the balance, with implications for the environment, the economy, and the country's energy future.
