Oil and gas executives engage with Democrats despite tensions at convention
Despite sharp criticism from Democratic leaders, oil and gas industry representatives were active at the Democratic National Convention, aiming to influence discussions on energy policy.
Emma Dumain reports for E&E News.
In short:
- Oil and gas leaders attended the Democratic National Convention to ensure their industry remains part of the energy conversation.
- Industry optimism stems from Kamala Harris' softened stance on fracking, indicating the sector's ongoing relevance.
- Environmental activists protested their presence, accusing companies like Exxon of exacerbating climate change.
Key quote:
"We all know they are going to continue the old songs of price collusion and polluting for profits and all those things, but we’re reducing emissions more than anywhere else in the world …we are going to continue to send that message while we’re here."
— Mike Sommers, president of the American Petroleum Institute
Why this matters:
The oil and gas industry is navigating intense scrutiny while attempting to shape future energy policies. The outcome could impact the pace of the U.S. energy transition and the industry's role in it.
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