Polling Reveals Split Among Pennsylvania Voters on Fracking Issue

A poll shows Pennsylvania voters are divided on fracking, favoring more regulations with energy issues low on priorities.
With Independence Hall in the background, a crowd of people hold signs with messages including

With Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic presidential nominee, fracking in Pennsylvania has become a focal point in national discussions, especially given its potential impact on this key swing state’s election outcome. However, what do Pennsylvanians really think about fracking, and how do these views influence their presidential choice?

A recent poll of likely Pennsylvania voters, commissioned by the Ohio River Valley Institute, addresses these questions. The survey results indicate that although opinions on fracking are divided, a majority supports stronger regulations on the natural gas industry. The findings also suggest that energy and natural gas issues are not top priorities for voters, contrary to some national narratives.

When asked about their primary voting motivations, Pennsylvanians prioritized jobs, border security, preserving democracy, reproductive rights, and tax cuts over climate change and energy costs.

Fracking remains a contentious issue in Pennsylvania, with partisan divides. Fifty-one percent of voters support fracking, 30 percent oppose it, and 19 percent are undecided. Among Republicans, 81 percent favor investing in fracking and pipeline development, while only 43 percent of Democrats agree. Support is strongest near Pittsburgh, a hub for the fracking industry.

Despite only 42 percent supporting a complete fracking ban, figures like Donald Trump and Senate candidate Dave McCormick use this issue to portray Democratic rivals as proponents of a ban. Among independents, support for a ban drops to 38 percent.

Fifty-two percent of respondents believe that “fracking can be done safely,” conflicting with findings from the Concerned Health Professionals of New York, which highlight health risks associated with fracking. Additionally, 48 percent agree that living near fracking sites raises health risks, aligning with 2023 public health studies from the University of Pittsburgh and Pennsylvania Department of Health.

Christopher Borick, director of Muhlenberg College’s Institute of Public Opinion, notes the poll’s alignment with past findings: Pennsylvania, despite being the second-largest natural gas producer in the U.S., remains divided on fracking due to health and environmental concerns. He emphasizes that fracking’s economic benefits do not necessarily sway voters.

Environmental activists may find optimism in the poll’s findings of widespread bipartisan support for tougher fracking regulations. Ninety-four percent of participants support mandatory chemical disclosure, 93 percent endorse safer waste transportation, and 90 percent favor increased well setbacks from hospitals and schools.

Sean O’Leary, a senior researcher at the Ohio River Valley Institute, expresses surprise at the high demand for increased restrictions. He notes that support for regulation has risen since the institute’s previous poll three years ago, reflecting local residents’ ambivalence and firsthand experiences with fracking.

National discussions often overlook voters’ concerns about the impacts of fracking on quality of life. Although some Pennsylvanians associate fracking with economic benefits, they also recognize its disruptive effects on daily life.

The suggested regulations align with recommendations from a 2020 grand jury report by Pennsylvania’s attorney general. Proposed measures include increasing well setbacks, public chemical disclosure, and safer waste transport. None of these have been implemented yet.

Original Story at insideclimatenews.org