Rare Earths, Common Corruption

An earlier note discussed the question about the possible impending scarcity of rare earth minerals.

http://michaelperelman.wordpress.com/2009/09/06/a-different-environmental-threat-peak-rare-minerals-china-and-green-technology/

Shortly thereafter, the esteemed representative, Jerry Lewis (I prefer the other comedian) put a $3 million earmark for an already profitable US mining company in the House Defense Bill. Should one be surprised that, along with two private equity funds, Goldman Sachs is the owner?

Allen, Jonathan. 2009. "Critics Blast $3m Mining Handout." Politico (6 October).
http://www.politico.com/news/stories/1009/27947.html