Breaking China’s Grip on Critical Metals
Author: Randyn Gregg, Montana House of Representatives for the 78th district
Breaking China’s Grip on Critical Metals
Randyn Gregg
Montana House of Representatives for the 78th district
China, rural America, mining, refining, and rare earth metals may sound unrelated, but together they reveal one of the greatest strategic threats facing our nation. Rare earth minerals are not truly rare. They are difficult and costly to extract and refine, yet these materials power nearly everything modern life depends on, from smartphones and microchips to batteries and advanced military weapons.
Decades ago, Communist China recognized their immense value. Leader Deng Xiaoping declared, “The Middle East has oil; China has rare earths.” With state backing, minimal environmental standards, and a clear long-term vision, China seized control. Today, it dominates 70 percent of global mining, 90 percent of refining, and 93 percent of finished production. That monopoly gives Beijing the power to disrupt American industries and military supply chains whenever it chooses.
Breaking this control starts in rural America. The resources exist here, and so does the expertise. During the 2025 Montana Legislative Session, I introduced House Resolution 2, urging President Trump and our congressional delegation to support exploration, development, refining, and recycling of critical minerals in Montana. This effort is not only about jobs. It is about securing the future strength and independence of the United States.
To compete, we must reform the National Environmental Policy Act of 1970. For decades, activists have used NEPA to delay or block projects vital to energy independence and national security. That is why I support Congressman Bruce Westerman’s SPEED Act, which streamlines permitting, limits lawsuits, and restores NEPA to its original purpose while keeping strong environmental protections.
Unlike China’s disregard for nature, the United States can mine and refine responsibly. With sensible reform, we can protect the environment, strengthen our defenses, and create thousands of high-paying American jobs.
To stay free and secure, we must regain control over the materials that power the modern world. Breaking China’s grip on rare earth metals will unlock the potential of rural America and ensure the future remains led by the United States, not the Chinese Communist Party.
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