Ryan Zinke: “as a former Secretary, I don't think anyone in this body has spent more time on Twin Metals reviewing the science than I…”

“as a former Secretary, I don't think anyone in this body has spent more time on Twin Metals reviewing the science than I have, so I think we should separate the hype from the science and the bull from fact. First of all, why are we here and why is it important at all? Well, this behind me are a few things we need critical minerals for: particularly our military, medical, and supply chain. What do all these have in common? The MQ-9 Reaper, the Javelin missile system, the Virginia-class submarine, the Tomahawk, the night vision, and Amron, what do they have in common? Those minerals are found in Twin Metals in the great State of Minnesota. Now, is it in the boundary waters? Is it in the area that is protected around it? No, it is not. I have seen these wonderful pictures of canoeing, of waters, of streams, of lakes, and they are absolutely beautiful. The problem is that is in the boundary waters. That is not where the mine is. Then, oh, Deb Haaland--I respect Deb Haaland. I had her in committee, Mr. Speaker. I asked her one question after a few: What minerals were in the mine area which she rescinded and put a moratorium on? I was amazed at her answer. She couldn't name one. So let's follow the science. I agree. There is a place to mine, and there is a place not to mine. I think probably I stand on the conservation side as much as any Member, but I have actually read the documentation. I have actually read the mining plans.”