Grand Rapids, MN—State Representative Spencer Igo, R-Grand Rapids, issued the following statement after news today that the Biden Administration is initiating another study of nonferrous mining on the Iron Range, further delaying the Twin Metals project and putting the project at risk.
“Today’s announcement shows that Democrats and the Biden Administration have a clear and blatant disregard for communities on the Iron Range and our way of life,” said Igo. “Copper-nickel mining in northern Minnesota should be the linchpin of President Biden’s plans to secure the critical minerals needed to build the world of tomorrow. Instead, this decision will force America to continue its dependence on foreign nations like China and the Democratic Republic of Congo for the raw materials needed for our future economy—further emboldening nations that engage in serious human rights and environmental abuses while putting our already strained supply chains at risk.
“Threatening to halt development of this project puts billions of dollars at risk for the state and region. Our communities, schools, workers, and entire Northland economy will feel the negative impacts of this decision for years to come. Mining is our past, present, and future as we work to bring our best days to reality. Despite this setback, I will not stop my support for these projects and will continue to fight for mining in our Northland.”
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