Twin Metals and dozens of mining firms are spending millions to influence Trump’s administration as it pours billions into breaking China’s grip on critical minerals. David Bernhardt, Trump’s former interior secretary, launched a lobbying firm in June 2025 that now represents over 60 clients, including BHP and Barrick Mining, generating $16mn in fees. The firm leverages deep connections to senior officials and knowledge of the administration’s inner workings.
Fourteen mining companies with government deals spent over $11.5mn on federal lobbying in 2025 and early 2026, up from $2.5mn in 2024. The push aims to secure loans, contracts, and policy favors, though US production has barely changed despite the spending. The urgency stems from China’s dominance in processing industrial metals and its trade-war restrictions.
Trump has backed new mines, struck overseas deals, and planned emergency stockpiles. In Minnesota, Twin Metals successfully overturned a 20-year mining ban near the Boundary Waters wilderness after Senate action and Trump’s signature.
Source: Financial Times Companies · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing