Native American Opposition to Copper Mine Could Shape 2024 Election in Arizona

Native American opposition to the Resolution Copper mine by Rio Tinto and BHP could influence the 2024 U.S. presidential election in Arizona, critical for copper supply in the U.S. The mine threatens a sacred site, mobilizing Native voters primarily supporting the Democratic candidate who could block or approve the project.

The tension surrounding the proposed Resolution Copper mine in Arizona has escalated, with Native American opposition potentially swaying the 2024 U.S. presidential election. The mine, if approved, could supply over a quarter of America's copper needs, but it threatens to destroy a sacred site of the San Carlos Apache tribe, sparking widespread dissent.

Despite promises of increased copper supply and reduced reliance on China, the project faces opposition from 21 of Arizona's 22 Native American tribes. An appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court aims to block the land swap required for the mine, a move initially approved by Congress in 2014 but reversed by President Biden.

The 2024 election could see Native American votes becoming decisive in Arizona, a battleground state. The mining project has highlighted the tension between energy independence and cultural preservation, with both political candidates weighing their strategies.

(With inputs from agencies.)