Defense beat: Digging for Mineral Independence

For the first time in 70 years, “the United States opened a rare earth mine,” reports RealClearInvestigation’s James Varney . “Ramaco’s Brook Mine in Ranchester,” Wyo., is “part of a critical effort to free the U.S. from China’s stranglehold on the minerals.” “China is the top producer of 30 of the 50 minerals the U.S. considers critical, and of 90% of the 17 that comprise rare earths.” Team Trump wants change, hence Energy Secretary Chris Wright’s presence at the mine opening. But mineral independence won’t be easy. “It takes more than seven years to secure a permit for mining something other than coal or gravel on public land.” The prez is “trying to remove some of the industry’s obstacles,” yet “the future pace and success of rare earth

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