Fracking Supporters Hopeful Post-Election

Supporters of development of hydraulic fracture drilling for natural gas in the Southern Tier of New York may be getting a boost in chances for drilling to be quickly approved following the election of pro-fracking candidates in Tuesday's election.

In the newly re-drawn 22nd Congressional district, Republican Richard Hanna defeated staunch anti-drilling Democrat Dan Lamb. Meanwhile, in the new 23rd Congressional district, another strong anti-drilling candidate, Democrat Nate Shagawa of Ithaca, was defeated by incumbent Republican Tom Reed of Corning.

Republican New York State Senator Thomas Libous, who also supports natural gas drilling, defeated fracking opponent Democrat John Orzel.

In Broome County, Republican incumbent County Executive Debbie Preston, who supports natural gas industry development, defeated Democrat and drilling opponent Tarik Abdelazim.

On the other hand, New York's study into whether or not to allow fracking was sidetracked by Hurricane Sandy when health experts that were to evaluate the state drilling study were told to stand down and direct all efforts to health issues triggered by Sandy downstate.

It had been hoped a decision on drilling would come in January.