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Seven Key Climate Change and Energy Debate Questions for Pennsylvania Senate Candidates

Pennsylvania’s U.S. Senate candidates, Democrat Bob Casey and Republican Dave McCormick, clash on energy policy ahead of their first debate.
The first debate between Sen. Bob Casey (D-Pa.) and Republican challenger Dave McCormick will take place on Thursday. Credit: Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images and Lev Radin/Pacific Press/LightRocket

Pennsylvania’s U.S. Senate candidates, Democrat incumbent Bob Casey and Republican challenger Dave McCormick, have clashed over energy policy since the campaign began. McCormick’s ads portray Casey as anti-fossil fuel, linking him to Vice President Kamala Harris’ past anti-fracking comments. Casey defends his support for fracking and an “all of the above” energy strategy that includes fossil fuels and clean energy investments, as backed by the Biden administration’s Inflation Reduction Act.

On Oct. 3, the candidates will debate in Harrisburg. Here are seven climate and energy questions the moderators should ask.

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Explore the latest news about what’s at stake for the climate during this election season.

For Sen. Bob Casey

  1. Do you believe fracking in Pennsylvania is currently being adequately regulated and monitored? If not, what should the government be doing differently to protect Pennsylvanians’ health and the environment?

Casey supports “responsible fracking” that is “regulated and closely monitored to protect our communities.” Environmentalists and public health experts argue that fracking isn’t regulated enough to prevent water contamination, air pollution, and health issues. Recent studies support this view.

  1. How would you address the concerns of climate activists and residents of environmental justice areas in Pennsylvania whose communities may become the future sites of two Department of Energy-funded hydrogen hubs? What should count as “clean” hydrogen and what should not?

Casey backed two hydrogen hub proposals, MACH2 and ARCH2, calling hydrogen a “potent energy source.” Local activists criticize these projects for potential environmental impacts.

Environmentalists are particularly concerned about the ARCH2 proposal, which would use fracked gas to make hydrogen and is supported by CNX Resources.

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro (left) and Sen. Bob Casey attend a media event in Harrisburg. Credit: Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania Gov Josh Shapiro left and Sen Bob Casey attend a media event in Harrisburg Credit Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

  1. Like Gov. Josh Shapiro, you’ve embraced an “all of the above” energy policy platform that encourages investment in renewable energy but doesn’t offer plans to decrease fossil fuel extraction in Pennsylvania. But you’ve also spoken about the “devastating impacts” of the climate crisis and said we need to “invest in meaningful climate action now.” Given the direct impact that fossil fuel extraction has on greenhouse gas emissions, how do you reconcile these positions? How have you supported “meaningful climate action” in your three terms as senator?

Casey voted against a fracking ban in 2021 and criticized President Joe Biden for pausing new liquified natural gas exports, citing concerns for Pennsylvania’s natural gas industry. Federal figures show Pennsylvania’s natural gas production has increased 43 times since Casey was first elected.

For Dave McCormick

  1. Is there any threshold of global warming at which you would change your mind about the need to increase fossil fuel extraction?

McCormick acknowledges climate change is human-caused but advocates for increasing U.S. oil and gas production. Scientists warn that without reducing fossil fuels, the world could surpass the 1.5 degrees Celsius warming limit set in the Paris Accords, leading to catastrophic consequences.

U.S. Senate candidate Dave McCormick speaks during the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee on July 16. Credit: Jacek Boczarski/Anadolu via Getty Images
US Senate candidate Dave McCormick speaks during the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee on July 16 Credit Jacek BoczarskiAnadolu via Getty Images

  1. What is your plan to help Pennsylvania adapt to a changing and increasingly damaging climate, and who will pay for it?

McCormick has discussed the need to “manage” climate change through adaptation. Extreme weather events are already affecting Pennsylvanians, costing local governments money. Estimates suggest climate adaptation could cost Pennsylvania up to $15 billion by 2040.

  1. Your wife, Dina Powell McCormick, sits on the board of the fossil fuel company ExxonMobil. How does her role affect your decisions and perspective on energy policy in the United States and abroad?

For Both

  1. How will you position Pennsylvania to become competitive in the clean energy economy of the future?

Pennsylvania lags behind other states in the clean energy economy, ranking 45th out of 50 for electricity generation from renewable energy and last in renewable energy growth over the past decade, according to PennEnvironment. Pennsylvania only ranks in the top 10 for one metric: electric vehicle sales.

Original Story at insideclimatenews.org

Trending News

Mississippi River Faces Persistent Saltwater Intrusion, Region Seeks Long-Term Solutions



For the third consecutive year, the Mississippi River is experiencing significant saltwater intrusion, prompting local communities and environmental experts to search for sustainable solutions. This recurring issue arises as the river’s flow decreases, allowing saltwater to move upstream and threaten drinking water supplies. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is actively involved in addressing this problem, employing temporary measures like saltwater barriers to mitigate the impact on affected areas.



Saltwater infiltration poses serious risks to public health and agriculture, as freshwater sources become compromised. The situation is exacerbated by prolonged periods of drought, which have reduced freshwater flow in the Mississippi River. According to the National Weather Service, drought conditions have worsened due to climate change, increasing the frequency and severity of saltwater intrusion events.



Local authorities are collaborating with federal agencies to explore permanent solutions. Among the proposed strategies are enhanced levee systems and improved water management techniques. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is evaluating the feasibility of long-term infrastructure projects to prevent further saltwater encroachment. Additionally, community leaders are advocating for increased funding to support these initiatives and safeguard the region’s water resources.



The impact of saltwater intrusion extends beyond drinking water concerns, affecting local ecosystems and agricultural productivity. Farmers in the region have reported crop damage due to elevated salinity levels in irrigation water. The Natural Resources Conservation Service is working with farmers to implement adaptive practices, such as planting salt-tolerant crops and improving soil management techniques.



As the Mississippi River continues to face challenges from saltwater intrusion, stakeholders emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts and innovative solutions. The ongoing threat underscores the need for comprehensive planning and investment to protect one of America’s most vital waterways from the impacts of climate change and environmental stressors.

November 19, 2024



Environmental activists have raised concerns over the fossil fuel sector’s significant impact on COP29, the latest United Nations Climate Change Conference. Activists argue that the industry’s presence diverts focus from critical climate actions.



The conference, designed to promote global climate agreements, faces criticism for allowing fossil fuel companies to participate extensively. Environmental groups claim these companies undermine efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.



According to Climate Action Network, fossil fuel representatives have increased their lobbying activities, aiming to weaken climate policies. These industries allegedly influence negotiations, leading to watered-down commitments that fail to address the urgency of climate change effectively.



Experts suggest that the influence of these companies stems from financial contributions and longstanding relationships with decision-makers. Critics argue that this affects the conference’s ability to enforce meaningful climate change regulations.



During the event, several protests highlighted the need for transparency and a stronger focus on sustainable energy solutions. Activists are calling for increased participation of renewable energy stakeholders in future conferences.



The controversy surrounding fossil fuel involvement at COP29 underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing industrial interests with the global imperative to combat climate change.



November 19, 2024