Antimony and National Security: Kamala Harris Announces Bold U.S. Critical Minerals Stockpile Plan
Kamala Harris’ $100 Billion Plan: Securing U.S. Critical Minerals for National and Economic Security
Editorial Team (ET)July 2, 2025
Vice President Kamala Harris has unveiled a comprehensive plan to create a national stockpile of critical minerals, citing the growing need for these essential resources in sectors ranging from clean energy to defense. Her initiative, part of a broader $100 billion industrial policy vision, emphasizes not only building the stockpile but also providing new incentives to spur domestic production and the use of emergency government powers to boost processing. The overarching goal is to reduce U.S. reliance on foreign countries, particularly China, which currently dominates the global supply of these minerals.
The Importance of Critical Minerals
Critical minerals, such as lithium, cobalt, and antimony, are essential components in modern technology. These minerals are used in everything from smartphones and electric vehicle batteries to defense systems and aerospace technologies. Without a reliable supply, industries could face severe disruptions, impacting national security and the economy.
By focusing on these minerals, Harris underscores their crucial role in the future of U.S. technological and industrial advancement. The demand for critical minerals is growing as the world transitions to greener technologies, and securing a stable supply is becoming a matter of national urgency.
Kamala Harris’ $100 Billion Industrial Policy
Harris' $100 billion industrial policy outlines her vision to increase domestic production of critical minerals while simultaneously addressing the vulnerabilities in the U.S. supply chain. By creating a national stockpile, Harris aims to insulate the country from potential supply chain disruptions and price volatility in the global market.
Her plan includes several key components, such as the use of the Defense Production Act to boost critical mineral processing within the U.S. The act, which dates back to the Cold War, grants the federal government the authority to direct industrial production in times of national emergency. Harris envisions using this power to ensure that U.S. industries have access to the critical minerals they need to thrive.
Reducing Dependence on China
One of the most significant aspects of Harris' initiative is reducing the U.S.'s dependence on China for critical minerals. China currently controls a large share of the global production of many of these minerals, making the U.S. vulnerable to supply disruptions and geopolitical tensions.
Harris' plan focuses on not only increasing domestic production but also partnering with allies to diversify supply chains. By working with friendly nations, the U.S. can reduce its reliance on any single foreign source and create a more resilient global supply network.
Incentivizing Domestic Production
To encourage U.S. companies to increase their production of critical minerals, Harris' policy introduces new incentives. These could include tax breaks, subsidies, and other financial incentives designed to make domestic production more attractive. The goal is to stimulate investment in mining and processing operations within the U.S., thereby strengthening the country's industrial base and ensuring a steady supply of critical minerals for key industries.
National Defense Stockpile Expansion
The House Select Committee on Strategic Competition between the U.S. and China has also recommended expanding the National Defense Stockpile, a reserve of critical minerals managed by the Department of Defense. This stockpile ensures that U.S. industries, particularly those related to defense, have access to vital materials in times of crisis.
Harris' plan aligns with this recommendation, proposing a $1 billion expansion of the stockpile. This move is designed to protect U.S. manufacturers from price volatility and supply chain disruptions, while also safeguarding national security.
Securing U.S. Economic and National Security
Harris' initiative is about more than just creating a stockpile; it's about securing the future of U.S. industries. Critical minerals are essential for everything from renewable energy technologies to advanced defense systems. Without a reliable supply, the U.S. risks falling behind in key sectors that are vital to both economic growth and national security.
The creation of a national stockpile, coupled with incentives for domestic production and cooperation with allies, will help the U.S. build a more secure and resilient supply chain. This initiative represents a significant step toward reducing U.S. dependence on foreign powers and ensuring that the country remains competitive in a rapidly changing global economy.
Conclusion
Vice President Kamala Harris’ pledge to create a national stockpile of critical minerals and boost domestic production is a crucial step in securing U.S. economic and national security. By reducing reliance on China and fostering stronger supply chains both domestically and with international partners, the U.S. will be better equipped to meet the challenges of the 21st century. This forward-thinking policy positions the country to remain competitive in high-tech industries and ensures that critical minerals will not become a weak link in America's industrial future.
