Harris shifts stance, backs domestic oil expansion amid fracking debate

Harris shifts stance, backs domestic oil expansion amid fracking debate

Vice President Kamala Harris supported U.S. oil production during the presidential debate, highlighting a shift from her earlier stance on fracking and appealing to moderate voters.

Anna Phillips reports for The Washington Post.


In short:

  • Harris emphasized the need to reduce foreign oil dependence while promoting record domestic production.
  • Her remarks signal a shift in rhetoric from her past opposition to fracking, reflecting political realities in swing states like Pennsylvania.
  • Younger climate activists criticized her position as a missed opportunity to differentiate herself from Donald Trump on energy policy.

Key quote:

“We have invested over a trillion dollars in a clean energy economy, while we have also increased domestic gas production to historic levels.”

— Kamala Harris, Vice President

Why this matters:

Harris’s support for oil production signals a pragmatic approach to win swing state votes but risks alienating young climate advocates. Balancing energy independence and climate action remains a key challenge for her campaign.

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