"In 2016, Republicans Will Have Fracking on Their Side"

"The road to the White House could be paved with oil and gas for a trio of Republican presidential hopefuls.

Texas Gov. Rick Perry, Sen. Ted Cruz, and Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal all come from states where fracking has created new jobs in the oil and gas industry. And if any of the Gulf State lawmakers launch a presidential bid, fracking will bolster their economic track record.

Indeed, all three have gone to great lengths to highlight the energy success story unfolding in their state. The fact that the boom is taking place in their backyard gives the cadre of conservatives a leg up when it comes time to talk up the benefits of fracking. It also opens the door for them to say they've steered their state in the direction of an oil-and-gas gold rush."

Clare Foran reports for National Journal June 12, 2014.