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Congressional Republicans Lift Mining Ban Near Boundary Waters

4/17/2026

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Republicans Lift Mining Ban

Congressional Republicans pass a resolution to lift the federal ban on mining near Minnesota's Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, allowing Twin Metals Minnesota LLC to extract precious metals.
The Senate voted 50-49 to send the measure to U.S. President Donald Trump.
U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) and U.S. Senator Tina Smith (D-Minn.) opposed, arguing it threatens public land protections.
The mining project faces legal challenges and environmental concerns.

Left

Trump Challenges Ruling

Judge Richard Leon blocked above-ground construction of U.S. President Donald Trump's $400 million ballroom, permitting only below-ground work for national security.
Leon said halting construction does not threaten national security and criticized the administration's interpretation of his rulings.
Trump condemned ruling, labeling Leon a 'Trump Hating' judge and claiming it undermines national security.
The administration has until next week to seek Supreme Court review.
Below-ground security measures can continue.

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Republicans Lift Mining Ban

Congressional Republicans pass a resolution to lift the federal ban on mining near Minnesota's Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, allowing Twin Metals Minnesota LLC to extract precious metals.
The Senate voted 50-49 to send the measure to U.S. President Donald Trump.
U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) and U.S. Senator Tina Smith (D-Minn.) opposed, arguing it threatens public land protections.
The mining project faces legal challenges and environmental concerns.

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