Biden still denies ever saying he opposed fracking, but promises to 'transition' out of the oil industry

Thomas Catenacci, DCNF

Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden promised Thursday that if elected he would both “transition from the oil industry” and not ban fracking.

The former vice president said his administration would phase out the oil industry, but denied saying he ever opposed fracking during the second and final 2020 presidential debate.

“I do rule out banning fracking,” Biden said.

President Donald Trump responded saying that in the past Biden had supported a fracking ban “on tape.”

“The fact of the matter is, he is flat lying,” Biden said. “I have never said I oppose fracking.”

Biden promised “no new fracking” during a CNN Democratic debate in March. His climate plan calls for an “emissions-free power sector” by 2035.

The topic of fracking led to the candidates’ views on the oil industry more broadly during Thursday’s debate.

“Would you close down the oil industry?” Trump asked Biden.

Biden responded: “I would transition from the oil industry, yes.”

“Because the oil industry pollutes,” Biden added after debate moderator Kristen Welker pushed him on the topic.

Joe Biden says he will “transition from the oil industry” pic.twitter.com/0TgtYhhLEZ

— Daily Caller (@DailyCaller) October 23, 2020

Trump called Biden’s comments on the oil industry a “big statement” later noting that it would not help the former vice president’s election prospects in Pennsylvania, Texas or Ohio.

Biden wants to "transition" away from the oil industry.

He just killed paycheck earned by hardworking families in Texas.

Joe just wants to transition away from Texas.

Remember that on election day..#Debates2020 #DebateTonight https://t.co/o6GaPCNQNE

— Greg Abbott (@GregAbbott_TX) October 23, 2020

Content created by The Daily Caller News Foundation is available without charge to any eligible news publisher that can provide a large audience. For licensing opportunities of our original content, please contact licensing@dailycallernewsfoundation.org.

DONATE TO BIZPAC REVIEW

Please help us! If you are fed up with letting radical big tech execs, phony fact-checkers, tyrannical liberals and a lying mainstream media have unprecedented power over your news please consider making a donation to BPR to help us fight them. Now is the time. Truth has never been more critical!