David Copley, a former executive at Newmont Mining (NEM.N), has been appointed to oversee the mining portfolio for the U.S. National Energy Dominance Council, sources confirmed. The council, established by President Donald Trump last month, aims to boost domestic production of oil, gas, and critical minerals like lithium and copper, reducing reliance on China’s near-monopoly in the sector.
Key Responsibilities:
Copley will serve as the senior White House official on mining, advising Trump on permitting reforms and coordinating federal oversight across agencies like the Bureau of Land Management and Mine Safety and Health Administration.
His appointment addresses long-standing fragmentation in U.S. mining policy, which has lacked a centralized leader since the Bureau of Mines closed in 1996.
Background:
Copley, an economist and U.S. Navy Reserve intelligence officer, previously held roles at Newmont, U.S. Silica, and Active Minerals International.
He brings expertise in strategic development and minerals production, having worked on Iraq-related issues for the State Department during Trump’s first term.
Policy Context:
Trump’s executive order on Thursday directs a review of federal lands, including Pentagon-controlled areas, for minerals processing to bolster domestic mining.
The U.S. seeks to counter China’s dominance in critical minerals, which are essential for technologies like electric vehicles and renewable energy.
Industry Reaction:
Abigail Hunter of SAFE’s Center for Critical Minerals Strategy praised the appointment, noting Copley’s “practical mining expertise” and the need for a unified federal strategy.