Congressman Dusty Johnson Criticized for Vote on Mining in Boundary Waters
South Dakota Congressman Dusty Johnson has come under criticism for his vote in favor of a resolution that passed the House of Representatives, which could allow mining of copper, nickel, and precious metals in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area in northern Minnesota. This area is a popular wilderness destination, attracting approximately 250,000 visitors annually. The resolution supports Twin Metals Minnesota, a subsidiary of the Chilean company Antofagasta, in its efforts to develop a large underground copper mine near Birch Lake. Environmental advocates, including the Wilderness Society, have expressed concern over the potential environmental impact, arguing that it disregards scientific studies and local input aimed at preserving the area for future generations. 
