On the recordMarch 7, 2022
I rise today on behalf of myself and Senator Crapo to express grave concern with the vulnerability of supply chains and the long-term implications if we do not act now to develop a secure supply chain of critical minerals. In light of the aggression shown by our adversaries, supply chain security is more important than ever. Our Nation is at a crossroads; Russia has invaded Ukraine. At the same time, China continues to use economic coercion to control global markets and shape countries' political decisions. With Congress' support, this administration must take drastic and targeted measures to ensure our Nation takes the right path to advance U.S. competitiveness and maintain a strong position in domestic and foreign markets, including critical minerals production. Critical minerals are vital to the emerging technologies that will underpin the future economic well-being and prosperity of this Nation. In recognition of these important minerals, under President Trump, the Department of the Interior developed a list of 35 critical minerals, a process that Congress later codified. That list, just last week, expanded to 50. Our home State of Idaho is rich in many of these minerals--some of which are fundamental to energy and national security applications--such as antimony and cobalt.…
