Pennsylvania voters strongly oppose Biden’s LNG pause, new poll reveals
Majority of Pennsylvania Voters Oppose Biden’s LNG Export Moratorium, Poll Shows
A new statewide poll in Pennsylvania has revealed that 58% of voters in the state are against President Joe Biden’s decision to impose a moratorium on liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports. The survey, conducted by Axis Research, highlighted the negative impact this decision would have on jobs and communities in Pennsylvania.
According to the poll, 41% of voters stated that they are now more likely to vote against Biden due to his suspension of approvals for new LNG export facilities. However, 22% of voters expressed increased support for the President.
In the Scranton media market, the number of voters opposed to Biden’s decision rises to a majority of 55%.
Concerns from Democratic Leaders
The Biden administration’s announcement on January 26 to halt the approval of new licenses for LNG exports due to climate change has faced criticism from Democratic Senators John Fetterman and Bob Casey. In a joint statement, they expressed their intention to urge Biden to reverse his decision, emphasizing the importance of the LNG industry in creating jobs and promoting energy independence.
Similarly, Governor Josh Shapiro has warned the Biden administration that the pause on LNG exports should be brief. He stressed the need to prioritize job creation in the energy sector in Pennsylvania.
Impact on Pennsylvania’s Economy
Pennsylvania is the second-largest natural gas-producing state in the US, after Texas. The industry employs around 125,000 people in the state, contributing over $41 billion to the state’s economy in 2022, according to a report by FTI Consulting.
Furthermore, the natural gas output in Pennsylvania amounts to 7.5 trillion cubic feet, heating over half of the state’s households.
Biden’s decision on LNG exports is just one of several administration choices that have negatively affected Pennsylvania’s economy. The closure of the Cleveland-Cliff’s Weirton plant and the potential shutdown of the Cleveland-Cliffs Butler Works have raised concerns among local Democrats.
Voters’ Concerns and Poll Results
A recent survey commissioned by the Pennsylvania Energy Infrastructure Alliance revealed that 84% of Pennsylvania voters believe the suspension of LNG exports poses a threat to thousands of well-paying jobs in the natural gas industry.
The poll also indicated that a majority of voters prioritize the economy and cost of living, with only 3% expressing a desire for the state to focus on climate change.
The Axis Research poll, conducted online from February 25 to 27, surveyed 601 Pennsylvania voters, with a majority identifying as independent or Democratic voters.
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How could the moratorium on LNG exports impact job creation in Pennsylvania’s natural gas industry?
Facilities has raised concerns among some Democratic leaders in Pennsylvania. These leaders argue that the moratorium could have significant economic implications for the state, which is a major producer of natural gas.
Pennsylvania’s natural gas industry has experienced significant growth in recent years, thanks in large part to hydraulic fracturing, or fracking. This industry has created jobs and stimulated economic development in many parts of the state. The moratorium on LNG exports could threaten these gains and the livelihoods of many Pennsylvanians.
One of the main concerns among Democratic leaders is the impact on job creation. The natural gas industry supports thousands of jobs in Pennsylvania, including in manufacturing, construction, and related industries. By halting new LNG export facilities, the Biden administration could potentially stifle job growth and hinder economic recovery in the state.
Additionally, some Democratic leaders argue that the moratorium could have negative consequences for local communities. The revenue generated from natural gas production has been crucial for funding schools, infrastructure projects, and other public services. Without the ability to export LNG, Pennsylvania may lose out on valuable revenue streams, putting these essential services at risk.
Critics of the moratorium also highlight the potential impact on energy prices. LNG exports have helped to diversify the global energy market, providing competition to traditional oil and gas suppliers. By limiting exports, the Biden administration could inadvertently increase energy prices for consumers both domestically and internationally.
Supporters of the moratorium, on the other hand, argue that it is necessary to address environmental concerns and prioritize the development of renewable energy sources. They believe that by reducing reliance on fossil fuels, the country can mitigate the impacts of climate change and transition to a more sustainable future.
However, the results of this poll indicate that the majority of Pennsylvania voters do not support President Biden’s decision to impose a moratorium on LNG exports. This highlights the importance of considering the economic implications of such policies, particularly in states where the natural gas industry plays a vital role.
Moving forward, it will be essential for the Biden administration to engage with stakeholders in Pennsylvania and other natural gas-producing states to address their concerns and find common ground. Balancing environmental priorities with economic considerations is a complex task, but it is crucial to ensure a just and sustainable energy transition that does not leave communities behind.
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