Political Impacts of Nuclear Energy

- Overview

In the United States, Republicans are more likely than Democrats to favor nuclear energy. Two-thirds of Republicans say they favor more nuclear power plants to generate electricity, compared with half of Democrats. 

Republicans have increased funding for nuclear power initiatives at the Department of Energy. Senators have called on their Democratic counterparts to embrace nuclear as a critical component of a diversified energy strategy. 

Democratic-leaning environmental groups have long opposed nuclear power, citing concerns about the environmental risks. 

The federal government supports the commercial nuclear industry in the following areas: 

• Nuclear research, development, and demonstration
• Nuclear regulation to protect the public's health and safety
• Enrichment of uranium to make it usable in commercial nuclear power plants

The use of nuclear energy for electricity production creates the need for a regulatory framework, which is often absent. This is particularly the case in developing countries.

- Political Impacts of Nuclear Energy

According to a March 2023 Gallup poll, 55% of Americans favor nuclear energy and 44% oppose it. This is the highest level of support in a decade. In 2020, 43% of Americans favored more nuclear power plants. 

However, Americans are more likely to favor solar power (82%) and wind power (75%) than nuclear power. 

Opponents of nuclear power say it poses threats to people and the environment. They point to studies that question if it will ever be a sustainable energy source. Opponents cite health risks, accidents, and environmental damage associated with uranium mining, processing, and transport. 

Supporters of nuclear power say it improves air quality and dramatically reduces pollution. Nuclear plants also generate long-term jobs and a higher demand for skilled labor than other energy technologies.

- Political Impacts of Renewable Energy