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House Democrats Demand Investigation into Interior Official's Lithium Deal

1/21/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The House Democrats have asked for an investigation into Karen Budd-Falen, a senior Interior Department official, over her handling of a lithium mine.
They note her husband entered a $3.5 million deal with Lithium Nevada Corporation, the mine's developer.
Records show Budd-Falen met with Lithium Nevada during the Trump administration while the Thacker Pass permit was pursued; the Interior Department has not commented.

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Story summary

The House Democrats have asked for an investigation into Karen Budd-Falen, a senior Interior Department official, over her handling of a lithium mine.
They note her husband entered a $3.5 million deal with Lithium Nevada Corporation, the mine's developer.
Records show Budd-Falen met with Lithium Nevada during the Trump administration while the Thacker Pass permit was pursued; the Interior Department has not commented.