Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has drawn criticism for opposing a key energy policy from former President Donald Trump. On Tuesday, Walz signed an executive order halting mining permits and leases near the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness in northeast Minnesota. This decision goes against legislation signed by Trump in April, which overturned a previous ban on new mining leases in the area.

House Majority Whip Tom Emmer criticized Walz’s decision, calling it “stupid” and “dangerous.” Emmer argued that this order would increase reliance on foreign minerals, particularly from adversaries like China, and harm local union jobs.

The legislation reversing the ban, approved by both the House and Senate, was spearheaded by Representative Pete Stauber. Walz’s recent order pertains to copper and nickel mining, both of which are crucial for various industries, including electronics and military equipment.

The Duluth Complex in northeastern Minnesota contains the largest known untapped reserves of nickel and copper in North America.

Environmental groups welcomed Walz’s move, emphasizing the importance of protecting the Boundary Waters from potential harm caused by mining activities. Save The Boundary Waters Executive Director Ingrid Lyons praised Walz for preserving the integrity of these natural resources.

However, Emmer refuted environmentalists’ arguments, asserting that everyone values clean air and water. He suggested that conducting mining operations in Minnesota, which has stringent environmental regulations, would be preferable to relying on less environmentally conscious methods abroad.