WASHINGTON—Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson joined a letter to Interior Secretary Doug Burgum in support of phosphate being included on the 2025 Critical Minerals List. Phosphate is an essential nutrient that supports plant growth, enhances water retention, and increases crop yield and disease resistance. This bicameral and bipartisan letter is led by Senators Ernst (R-IA) and Slotkin (D-MI), and Representatives Kat Cammack (R-FL) and Jimmy Panetta (D-CA). 

“Southeast Idaho is home to one of the world’s most significant phosphate reserves, which plays a critical role in our economy and agriculture,” said Rep. Simpson. “Food security is national security, and we must maintain our role as the global leader in food supply. I applaud President Trump and Secretary Burgum’s efforts in prioritizing the domestic production of critical minerals and safeguarding America’s food security. Adding potash to the Critical Minerals List is a great first step, but to maintain our lead and protect America’s producers, farmers, and economic output, phosphate must also be added.”

Rep. Simpson has advocated for potash and phosphate to be included on the final list of critical minerals. Rep. Simpson joined a letter to Interior Secretary Doug Burgum in support of phosphate and potash being included on the U.S. Geological Survey’s list of critical minerals in April. In the 118th Congress, Rep. Simpson cosponsored legislation to include phosphate and potash on the final list of critical minerals of the Department of the Interior.

The full letter is available here.