Little is expected to change this election season at the local and state level for the Appalachian Basin’s energy sector, where there are few close races and no major ballot initiatives impacting oil and gas. 

West Virginia nat gas

Unlike in years past, there are no high profile clashes for state legislatures, governors’ offices or closely watched referendums for more control over local oil and gas oversight. As far as the presidential race is concerned, representatives from trade groups across the basin, which produces about 33 Bcf/d of natural gas, are watching closely and stressing the need for gas to play a key role in the ongoing energy transition. 

At the regional level, a key governor’s race is underway in West Virginia, where Kanawha County Commissioner Ben Salango, a Democrat, is...