A Shift Among Democrats: Embrace Record Levels of Oil and Gas
Briefly

Mr. Vance, the Republican vice-presidential candidate, used a rhetorical flourish during his debate with Mr. Walz to raise doubts about the established science of climate change. He questioned the idea that carbon emissions drive all climate change, framing it as something to argue about, reflecting a broader tactic among some politicians to challenge the consensus on climate science while evading deeper discussions on fossil fuel usage.
Mr. Walz, the Democratic vice-presidential candidate who acknowledged the reality of climate change and discussed the severe impacts of extreme weather, avoided suggesting a halt to fossil fuel production. Rather than addressing the critical necessity to stop burning oil, gas, and coal, he pivoted to advocate for clean energy investments and noted that oil and gas production has reached record levels during the Biden administration.
We are producing more natural gas and oil than any time we ever had, Mr. Walz emphasized, underscoring the paradox that while his party pushes for clean energy, fossil fuel production continues to surge. He coupled this with the assertion of increases in nonpolluting energy sources, aiming to paint a picture of responsible energy management that combines both fossil fuels and renewables.
Vice President Kamala Harris's recent comments during her debate with Mr. Trump echoed Mr. Walz's position, stating, 'We have invested a trillion dollars in a clean energy economy while we have also increased domestic gas production to historic levels.' This framing attempts to reconcile economic growth through fossil fuels with a commitment to clean energy development, reflecting a complex debate within the Democratic strategy.
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