Leppert, R. (2023, August 18). Growing share of Americans favor more nuclear power. Pew Research Center. https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2023/08/18/growing-share-of-americans-favor-more-nuclear-power/

A majority of Americans (57%) now support expanding nuclear power plants for electricity generation, a significant increase from 43% in 2020. This rise is evident among both Democrats and Republicans. Although nuclear energy support has increased, solar (82%) and wind power (75%) remain more favored by Americans, with all three emitting no carbon. Advocates for nuclear power argue that it has a large role in carbon emission reduction, while critics point out its high costs and radioactive waste challenges. Men (54%) are more supportive of nuclear power than women (28%), and Republicans (66%) more than Democrats (50%). Despite a 17-point partisan difference, both parties show increased support since 2020. The U.S. has 93 nuclear reactors, declining since 1990, with safety concerns impacting projects.

It is interesting to see how different political parties and gender each support nuclear power differently. I wonder why republicans are more favorable for nuclear power and why men are more favorable than women. Politics are largely related to the future of our environment and climate since they affect what policies are put into place and how we decide to deal with climate change and energy consumption and production. In this case, it is good that more people are supporting nuclear energy since it is a better alternative to energy generation than coal, natural gas, and other non-renewable energy. Although it is a better alternative, there are still issues with nuclear energy and it is more of a transitional energy source until we find a more efficient source.