Republicans Block Subpoena for Donald Trump Jr. Over Critical Mineral Deal

On October 1, 2025, Republicans on a House Natural Resources subcommittee blocked a motion to subpoena Donald Trump Jr. regarding his support for critical mineral companies, including Vulcan Elements, which received a $620 million federal loan from the Department of Defense. The motion was voted down by a 5-2 margin, as Republicans control the subcommittee 5-3. The hearing was focused on the U.S. mineral supply chain, and Democrats expressed concerns over potential financial benefits to Trump's family businesses from government contracts. The subcommittee was subsequently adjourned after the vote.