Fracking emerges as pivotal issue in Pennsylvania Senate race

In Pennsylvania's Senate race, fracking has become a focal point as Republican Dave McCormick challenges Democratic incumbent Bob Casey.

Kiley Bense reports for Inside Climate News.

In short:

• Dave McCormick is leveraging fracking as a key issue in his Senate campaign against Bob Casey, aiming to appeal to conservative voters while portraying Casey as anti-industry.
• Both McCormick and Casey have similar energy policies supporting natural gas, nuclear power, and clean energy, despite McCormick's focus on Casey's alleged opposition to fracking.
• The Senate race underscores broader electoral concerns about the environment and energy, especially in Pennsylvania, where fracking is a significant economic driver.

Key quote:

“McCormick has been pretty clear that he’s not particularly interested in taking the climate crisis very seriously.”

— Ilyas Khan, hub coordinator for Sunrise Pittsburgh

Why this matters:

Fracking is a contentious issue in Pennsylvania, a key swing state, impacting both the environment and the economy. This race could influence national energy policies and climate strategies amid rising concerns about fossil fuels.

Related EHN coverage:

• Fracking chemicals “imbalance” the immune system
• Fractured: The body burden of living near fracking
• Fractured: Harmful chemicals and unknowns haunt Pennsylvanians surrounded by fracking