Good Energy Collective is deeply concerned about the Trump Administration’s decision to remove Commissioner Christopher Hanson from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), a precedent-breaking action that undermines the Commission’s political independence and credibility.
Congress established the NRC to operate as a politically independent, expert-driven body, shielded from partisan influence and guided by science, safety, and public interest. By removing Hanson, a Trump appointee widely respected for his experience, pragmatism, and collaborative leadership, the Administration is undermining that foundational principle. This action disregards the intent behind the NRC’s creation and jeopardizes the Commission’s ability to function effectively at a time when its workload, visibility, and importance are only growing.
Commissioner Hanson’s exit comes at a time when the NRC is facing a surge in demand, driven by a wave of advanced reactor applications, license renewals for existing plants, and implementation of the bipartisan ADVANCE Act. The Commission is being asked to move faster and more flexibly than ever to meet the moment, and losing a seasoned, pragmatic leader like Hanson diminishes its ability to do so.
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