Trump removes NRC Commissioner Hanson — first commissioner removal in agency history

President Trump removed Christopher T. Hanson from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, the first removal of an NRC commissioner in the agency's 50-year history. Hanson had been NRC Chair from 2021 until Jan. 20, 2025, when Trump designated David Wright as chair. Critics including the Union of Concerned Scientists argued the removal violated the independence of the NRC and set a precedent for political interference in nuclear safety regulation. The Breakthrough Institute and nuclear industry advocates argued the NRC needed fresh leadership to accelerate the licensing reform agenda.