Press Releases

Last week, the Western Caucus Foundation hosted a Field Tour and Policy Discussion in Colorado Springs with seven Congressional Western Caucus Members, congressional staff, and partner organizations. Members attending included Congressional Western Caucus Chairman Doug LaMalfa (CA-01), Vice Chairs Harriet Hageman (WY-AL) and Pete Stauber (MN-08), and Representatives Jeff Crank (CO-05), Troy Balderson (OH-12), Nick Begich (AK-AL), and Lauren Boebert (CO-04).

“Field tours are a great way for Western Caucus members to see first-hand the Western Way of Life,” said Chairman LaMalfa. “Last week, we heard from folks in Colorado Springs about the critical role coal and natural gas play in delivering affordable and reliable energy to the region. We also discussed the local economic advantages granted by mining, and how Colorado’s role in domestic mineral supply chains increases our national security. These visits give policymakers a better understanding of how Congress can serve rural America and the West.”
 
“It was an honor to have members from the Western Caucus visit Colorado’s Fifth Congressional District, being able to showcase all the area has to offer,” said Representative Crank. “From visiting the Cripple Creek and Victor gold mine to discuss how we can achieve mineral dominance, to going to Colorado Springs Utilities to view the natural gas and coal plants, we were able to have important discussions on how to unleash American Energy.”
 
“Leadership at the Cripple Creek & Victor Gold Mine provided members of Congress with a clear depiction of how we are securing America's critical mineral future,” said Congressman Begich. “America first starts with American mining and American energy development.” 

Congressional Western Caucus Members heard firsthand from local leaders and organizations about Colorado’s energy mix, rich mining history and role in preparing future National Security leaders. Policy discussions focused on the need for active forest management to prevent catastrophic wildfires and threats from gray wolves. 

The group visited natural gas and coal plants operated by Colorado Springs Utilities where they heard about how these key components of an all-of-the-above strategy power the Colorado Springs region. 

Domestic mining is a critical component in national security and fortifying our mineral supply chains. The group visited the Cripple Creek and Victor gold mine to learn about Colorado’s rich mining history and how the state can help America achieve mineral dominance. 

The field tour concluded with a visit to the United States Air Force Academy. The group toured the campus with Major General Thomas Sherman, Vice Superintendent of the Academy, and heard about how the Academy prepares the next generation of American Air Force leaders.