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Lawmakers are demanding more information from the Pentagon regarding its equity investments in defense companies to strengthen the industrial base. The Defense Department's recent $1 billion investment in L3Harris aims to bolster production capabilities and attract private capital.

Critics express concerns over potential market distortions and the implications of government ownership. Additionally, the U.S. Trade Representative is accepting comments on a proposed agreement to enhance supply chains for critical minerals, essential for various technologies and military applications. Critics warn it could support exploitative mining without adequate protections.