Heinrich and Vasquez silent on the extreme Harris/Walz energy plan
Since Kamala Harris emerged as the presumptive Democrat nominee on July 21, following the ouster of Joe Biden, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich and U.S. Rep. Gabe Vasquez, both far-left Democrats facing tough reelection races in November, have yet to comment on her energy platform. This silence is particularly notable given the massive role that the oil and gas industry plays in New Mexico’s economy, contributing $11.3 billion annually and providing employment for 100,000 residents.
Despite the pressing concerns from their constituents regarding Harris’ stance on the Green New Deal and her purported shift on a fracking ban, Heinrich and Vasquez have not made their positions clear on her policies. This comes as global financial markets experience major turbulence, including yesterday, where the Dow Jones Industrial Average plunged over 1,000 points.
“When it comes to issues that matter, Martin Heinrich and Gabe Vasquez are taking a cowardly vow of silence,” stated Larry Behrens, Communications Director for the pro-energy group Power The Future.
He emphasized the urgent need for these leaders to clarify whether they support Harris’ energy policies, which are critical to the state’s economic stability and growth. “As fears of recession spread across the globe, Martin Heinrich and Gabe Vasquez need to be honest about if they agree with Kamala Harris or not on the industry that powers their state’s economy and well-being. Every day they remain silent is more proof they want to be politicians instead of leaders.”
Power The Future, a 501c4 non-profit organization, is dedicated to advocating for American energy workers. The group highlights the essential role of the energy sector, particularly in states like New Mexico where oil and gas are pivotal to economic prosperity.
The Harris energy plan has sparked intense debate, particularly her endorsement of the Green New Deal and her evolving stance on fracking. The Green New Deal, which aims for a rapid transition to renewable energy sources, has been both lauded for its environmental aspirations and criticized for potential economic disruptions, especially in energy-dependent regions.
Harris’ position on fracking, a contentious issue, has also been a focal point. Initially supporting a ban, her alleged reversal raises questions about the future of this practice under her leadership.
Her vice-presidential running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, is openly anti-fracking under all circumstances.
For New Mexico, where the oil and gas industry is not just an economic driver but a source of thousands of jobs, the implications of Harris’ energy policies are profound. The state’s reliance on this sector means that any drastic policy changes could significantly impact its financial health and employment rates.
The silence from Heinrich and Vasquez on these issues is thus more than a political oversight; it is a matter of public concern.
In contrast, the global financial markets are currently in a state of flux, adding another layer of complexity. As fears of a recession loom, decisive leadership and clear communication from elected officials become even more critical. The remarks from Behrens underscore the urgency for Heinrich and Vasquez to step forward and provide the necessary leadership on these pivotal issues.
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