Deflating security: Biden sells federal helium reserve, threatens us industries… National security on the line as critical element supply diminishes.
In a surprising turn of events, the U.S. government has auctioned off the Federal Helium Reserve, a subterranean treasure in Amarillo, Texas, responsible for supplying up to 30% of the nation’s helium needs. This critical element is indispensable in medical technologies, cryogenics, semiconductors, and even rocket propulsion systems.
The top bidder will acquire not just the reserve but also about 425 miles of pipelines across three states and roughly 1 billion cubic feet of helium. However, this transition to private ownership poses regulatory challenges, potentially leading to a temporary shutdown, particularly concerning for the healthcare sector, where MRIs heavily rely on helium.
Medical industry expert Soumi Saha warns that the sale could worsen an existing supply shortage, impacting industries beyond healthcare, such as cryogenics, semiconductors, and rocket technology.
The decision resonates politically, affecting Texas in its ongoing dispute with the federal government over border security. The sale of a strategic asset raises the stakes in this already heated standoff.
Adding to the complexity, discussions about freezing Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) exports loom, potentially dealing a severe blow to the U.S. economy, especially in Texas, heavily reliant on the energy sector.
As the nation grapples with the consequences of divesting a critical resource, the Biden administration’s actions raise questions about the delicate balance between economic interests, national security, and the strategic importance of essential elements like helium.
Sources:
On Thursday, the U.S. government sold the Federal Helium Reserve, a massive underground stockpile based in Amarillo, Texas, that supplies up to 30% of the country’s helium….. What is Biden doing? You can't make helium. pic.twitter.com/drxe78rg9A
— Satguy 141 (@satguy01) January 26, 2024
Biden Admin Sells Federal Helium Reserve, Threatening US Industry & National Security
The US government is selling off the Federal Helium Reserve, which is a large subterranean stockpile located in Amarillo, Texas.
The Helium stockpile provides up to 30% of the nation's… pic.twitter.com/2ZfTauUQMC
— Kyle Becker (@kylenabecker) January 26, 2024
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