While the importance of securing access to critical mineral resources and resource independence did not take center stage in any of the televised presidential debates, the need to ensure a strong manufacturing base was a recurring theme throughout the campaign season. As we have been pointing out, the latter is contingent on the former. Congressman Doug Lamborn (CO-05) is one of the Members of Congress who connects the dots, and he released the following statement in anticipation of the third presidential debate on foreign policy earlier this week:

“I hope the presidential candidates will address America’s need for resource independence. According to American Resources Policy Network, a non-partisan research organization, 50 percent of 43 critical minerals came from foreign countries. We should not be relying on China for minerals critical to our defense, manufacturing, and energy technologies.

“American mineral exploration and production has slowed to a near standstill over the last two decades, while foreign mineral exploration has exploded. Many actions have contributed to the current state of our mineral dependence. Decade-long delays in issuing permits, frivolous lawsuits filed simply to delay projects, and the absence of a national mineral policy.

“That’s why I have introduced The National Strategic and Critical Minerals Policy Act of 2011, H.R. 2011. This legislation will promote domestic production of minerals vital to our defense technologies, economy, and clean energy development – all of which will help make America safer, more prosperous, and one day truly resource independent.” – Congressman Doug Lamborn (CO-05)