Gem State Gems: Risch and Trump Mine for American Might
How Idaho’s Mines Are Fueling America’s Fight for Self-Reliance

Idaho is poised to become America’s powerhouse for critical minerals, and Sen. Jim Risch is waving the flag high in this patriotic push for self-reliance. In a fiery op-ed published in the Gem State Chronicle on June 3, 2025, titled “OPINION: Making Idaho’s Critical Minerals A Priority,” Risch lays out a compelling case for why the Gem State is ready to lead the charge in securing the nation’s economic and security future. With a nod to President Donald Trump’s recent executive order, Risch’s piece is a rallying cry for cutting red tape and unleashing Idaho’s mineral wealth. Let’s dig into why this matters—and why Idaho’s about to strike gold (and antimony, cobalt, and more).
Idaho: The Gem State’s Literal Gems
Risch doesn’t mince words: “America’s future depends on critical minerals, and Idaho is ready to lead.” He’s spot-on. The Gem State is a treasure trove of minerals like antimony, cobalt, molybdenum, tungsten, niobium, phosphate, gold, and silver—resources that fuel everything from national defense to agriculture and cutting-edge tech. As Risch notes, “The Gem State is home to each of these minerals and many more.” This isn’t just local pride; it’s a national game-changer.
For too long, bureaucratic overreach has kept these resources locked underground, forcing the U.S. to lean on foreign suppliers—many from nations that, as Risch diplomatically puts it, “do not share our values or interests.” Enter President Trump’s executive order, which Risch praises for “cutting through the red tape” and prioritizing two Idaho mining projects: the Stibnite Gold Project and the Caldwell Canyon Mine. These aren’t just mines; they’re milestones in America’s quest for independence.
