In a recent interview with CNN, Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris made it clear that if elected president, she would not ban fracking, a drilling technique she once opposed. Harris's statement comes amidst criticism from her opponent, former President Donald Trump, who has repeatedly highlighted her changing stance on fracking since 2019 when she expressed support for a ban during a Democratic debate.

The significance of Harris's position on fracking is underscored by the battleground state of Pennsylvania, both a crucial swing state and the second-largest producer of natural gas in the United States. As Pennsylvania has experienced the decline of the steel and coal industries, it values the economic and energy benefits derived from natural gas.

While Harris's opponents argue that her pledge may conflict with the Biden administration's efforts to address climate change by curbing oil and gas production, Harris maintains that her commitment to combat the climate crisis remains steadfast. She acknowledges that her previous views may not align with the current public sentiment and emphasizes the need for progress on the green energy front.

Harris's lack of specifics regarding her energy plan has raised questions among industry experts and supporters alike. The absence of detailed proposals in her economic proposal and public appearances has been noted, particularly in comparison to Trump's repeated promise to "drill, baby, drill" as a means to reduce energy costs.

Despite the criticism, Harris's supporters point out that her record as vice president does not align with the perception that she has always been against natural gas. During her tenure, record levels of oil and gas production were achieved, reflecting a more nuanced approach to energy policy.

Harris's explanation for her evolving stance on fracking is seen as an attempt to put the issue to rest while maintaining her commitment to a greener climate. She highlights the Inflation Reduction Act, a significant piece of green energy legislation introduced by the Biden administration, which aims to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles and other renewable technologies.

The focus on green energy is emblematic of Harris's belief in the urgency to address the climate crisis. She points out that over 300,000 clean energy jobs have already been created, indicating that progress can be made without a complete ban on fracking.

As the election approaches, Harris's position on fracking and green energy will continue to be scrutinized. While she seeks to appeal to voters who prioritize economic considerations in key battleground states like Pennsylvania, Harris remains committed to addressing the challenges posed by climate change.