The coal baron senator included a controversial carbon capture provision in the IRA that could benefit his biggest sponsor, a fossil fuel company betting big on unproven technologies.
By Donald Shaw, The Lever
While forcing his fellow Democrats to scale back their climate and health care legislation, Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) made sure the bill included a lucrative gift for his biggest donor: a fossil fuel company whose CEO recently called the legislative gift a potential “game changer” for its business.

Critics say the provision — tax credits for unproven carbon capture technologies — is a handout to the oil and gas industry that could end up prolonging fossil fuel use instead of accelerating a transition to renewable energy. In addition, Manchin has reportedly negotiated a side deal for separate legislation that could also enrich that same fossil fuel industry donor.
The situation illustrates the continued power of fossil fuel industry lobbyists to shape legislation, even in an era when scientists say that industry’s products are destroying the livable ecosystem.
It also sheds light on a contradiction at the heart of Democrats’ Inflation Reduction Act (IRA): A bill sold to the public as a climate solution includes significant resources for the oil and gas industry fueling the climate crisis.
Recent Posts
Sen. Bernie Sanders Opposes Unconditional Military Aid To Israel In Funding Bill
December 5, 2023
Take Action Now An additional $10.1 billion in “unconditional military aid” to Israel would be “irresponsible,” the senator…
COP28 Has More Fossil Fuel Lobbyists In Attendance Than Ever
December 5, 2023
Take Action Now There are 2,456 fossil fuel interests at this year’s U.N. climate summit, nearly four times more than any past year, according…
“The Madness Of Militarism,” The 2023 Ellsberg Lecture By Norman Solomon
December 5, 2023
Take Action Now Norman Solomon reflects on ‘the madness of militarism’ in the Ellsberg Lecture By Norman Solomon, Nation of Change In…
The U.S. Has Given Israel An Endless Supply Of Smart Bombs
December 5, 2023
Take Action Now Nearly three years ago, Congress gave Israel a pass to stockpile precision-guided bombs “without regard to annual limits.” An inside…