U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Senate Majority Whip, addressed the Senate regarding the recent opening of the Brook Mine in Sheridan, Wyoming. The mine is notable as the first rare earth elements mine to begin operations in the United States in 70 years.
Secretary of Energy Chris Wright attended the opening ceremony and described it as “a landmark moment” for U.S. energy independence. According to Barrasso, “Wyoming minerals, mined by Wyoming workers, will build a safer, more prosperous America.”
In his prepared remarks, Barrasso highlighted that earlier this month President Trump signed into law an economic plan aimed at expanding domestic energy production. The legislation is intended to make it easier to produce oil, natural gas, and coal within the country and opens up new areas for energy development both onshore and offshore.
Barrasso referred to Wyoming as “America’s energy breadbasket,” emphasizing its central role in future U.S. energy production. He stated that most Americans may not be familiar with the Brook Mine but will notice its effects through changes in prices, job opportunities, and national security.
The Brook Mine reportedly contains over a billion tons of coal and nearly two million tons of critical minerals used in products such as smartphones, vehicles, and military equipment like fighter jets.
Barrasso pointed out current U.S. reliance on China for refined rare earth elements—China controls 85 percent of global supply—and argued that reducing this dependence is vital for national security and economic prosperity.
“Secretary of Energy Chris Wright came to Sheridan, Wyoming, for the groundbreaking ceremony. He called it ‘a landmark moment’ for our workers, our manufacturers, and our energy independence. He’s exactly right. Today, America is dangerously dependent on China for critical minerals. China controls 85 percent of the world’s refined rare earth element supply. Today, China is weaponizing this power to pressure our country and threaten our supply chains,” said Barrasso.
He continued: “We cannot be safe if we are dependent on our adversaries. We cannot prosper if we cannot power our country. That is why this critical mineral mine in Wyoming matters. It reflects our commitment to independence.”
Barrasso concluded by stating: “Republicans are focused on restoring American energy dominance. We are getting America back on track – stronger, safer, and more prosperous than ever. We will not stop until the American people see the results they deserve.”
