Congressman Doug Lamborn (CO-05) released the following statement in anticipation of tonight’s presidential debate on foreign policy:

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)

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