America 250: The Case for American Mineral Dominance

LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT AND CEO

June 29, 2026

Dear Friends,

America was founded on the promise of abundance and opportunity. As our nation approaches its 250th anniversary, we look back with pride at what our ancestors built, and look forward with hope at what we can achieve. To ensure American strength for the next 250 years, we must recommit to the same principle that built this nation: the responsible stewardship of our abundant natural resources and the determination to harness them for the benefit of all Americans.

We stand at a pivotal moment. The minerals within American borders power everything that have historically made our nation strong. Minerals have helped us build the skyscrapers that are hallmarks of our great American cities, establish the transcontinental railways that connect our country, and form a manufacturing base that is now a global leader in technology and defense sectors, among so many others. From cobalt and nickel to copper, rare earths and lithium, these resources are the backbone of American economic and national security.

Still, China dominates the processing and supply of countless minerals and rare earths. It takes an average of 29 years to bring a new mine online in America – the longest timeline of almost every nation. This dependence is a vulnerability that potential adversaries understand and are prepared to exploit.

We know that America’s mineral weakness is not inevitable. It’s the result of specific policy choices that, for decades, have made it virtually impossible to bring new domestic mines online, even as America possesses extraordinary mineral wealth. We know the resources are here. What’s missing is the political will to access them.

Through permitting reform, restoration of regulatory certainty and investment in domestic mining projects, Congress has the opportunity to determine the next chapter of American strength – one built on the same mineral foundation that powered our past. Congress must seize this moment now to secure America’s mineral future and power the next 250 years of American leadership.

Thank you,
Rich Nolan
National Mining Association (NMA)
President and CEO