Twenty oil & gas companies and industry trade associations spent more than $52 million to tip the scales in favor of their preferred U.S. House and Senate candidates this election, including more than $5.4 million to help Pennsylvania GOP Senate candidate Dr. Mehmet Oz.
Greenpeace released analysis Tuesday, as voters head to the polls, breaking down how Big Oil threw cash at Super Pacs and party committees to focus on the country’s most competitive races, like the neck-and-neck PA Senate race between Oz and Democratic candidate John Fetterman. Much more money was given to these groups rather than directly to candidates because there are no spending limits.
“Today is a turning point for our country, and the urgency of the climate crisis demands that all of us make our voice heard,” said Greenpeace USA Co-Executive Director Ebony Twilley Martin in a press statement. “In 2020, climate voters turned out in record numbers to help protect our families, our democracy, and ensure a livable future. Today, we must do the same.”
The oil and gas industry spent an estimated average of $4.3 million for key Senate races and $490,000 for key House races.
“This election puts us at a critical crossroads: one path sends us towards climate catastrophe, the weakening of our democracy, and more injustice. The other path, which I am calling on us to take today, is a chance to improve our lives and protect our planet together,” added Martin.
Here is Greenpeace’s breakdown of Big Oil’s spending.
