Mariner East 2 Pipeline Represents a Bipartisan Opportunity Pennsylvania Can’t Afford to Miss

If this presidential election proved anything it’s that our nation’s politics are more divided than ever and common ground between Republicans and Democrats is unfortunately a rarity. With the conclusion of the election, it is time for America to once again come together to build a better future for our country. One thing politicians do agree on however: energy infrastructure. The Mariner East 2 pipeline is a perfect bipartisan opportunity for lawmakers who are willing to cooperate.

President-elect Donald Trump has made it clear that enhancing America’s energy infrastructure will be an issue of the upmost importance over the next four years. Trump’s victory speech and infrastructure plan are evidence of this as Trump promised to bring the next wave of great infrastructure projects to America—pipelines included.

Pennsylvania Democrat Governor Tom Wolf feels in the same way about America’s energy infrastructure. Throughout his career, Wolf has consistently advocated for pipeline infrastructure in his state especially with regards to the Marcellus Shale formation. According to his campaign website, “Wolf believes that the Marcellus Shale must be a key component of any plan for Pennsylvania’s future. We must ensure that we take advantage of this resource and opportunity in a way that benefits all Pennsylvanians.” More recently, Wolf announced a pipeline investment program that will offer up to $24 million in funding for businesses, school districts, and economic development organizations.

Clearly, Pennsylvania’s Democratic Governor and our nation’s new Republican President-elect have both their sights set on America’s energy infrastructure future. Over the next four years, lawmakers from both sides of the aisle should capitalize on the critical issues that bind us together rather than devolve into obstructive, contentious politics as usual.