By Sen. Jim Risch
Idaho and the United States possess vast reserves of critical minerals that are essential for our national security and economy.
However, excessive regulations and bureaucratic red tape have forced the U.S. to rely on adversarial nations like China for these vital resources.
We have neglected the strategic minerals readily available in our own backyard and placed our security at the mercy of Communist China.
Fortunately, there is a clear path forward.
Last week, I published an editorial in Newsweek outlining the immediate actions that Congress can take to support President Trump’s work to restore American leadership in critical mineral production.
Without a robust domestic supply of critical minerals, our military readiness, energy infrastructure, and advanced manufacturing sectors will remain at risk.
President Donald Trump’s recent executive order to increase American mineral production is an opportunity to reverse this dangerous trajectory, and we in Congress must stand ready to support his vision.
We must make it clear that the United States is leading the global race for critical minerals, not following.
Building a more secure and prosperous future starts now, and the clock is ticking.
Click here to read my full OpEd in Newsweek.
About Jim Risch
Jim Risch proudly represents the people of Idaho in the United States Senate. He currently chairs the Foreign Relations Committee and sits on the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. Risch previously served as Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and State Senator. For the latest press releases and constituent services visit risch.senate.gov.
