President Trump has recently removed one of the members of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, which oversees the nation's nuclear reactors. Christopher T. Hanson, who was appointed by President Biden in 2020, was terminated on Friday according to an email from the White House Deputy Director of Presidential Personnel, Trent Morse. The email simply stated that Hanson's position as Commissioner of the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission was terminated immediately.

White House Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly mentioned that all organizations function better when leaders are aligned in their goals. She added that President Trump has the authority to remove employees within his Executive Branch. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission did not provide an immediate response to NPR's request for comment.

In a statement, Hanson expressed his dedication to maintaining the independence, integrity, and bipartisan nature of the nuclear safety institution. He emphasized his trust in the commitment of the organization to serve the American people by ensuring public health safety and environmental protection.

Some experts in the nuclear industry criticized the decision, stating that this move, along with other actions taken by the administration, could impact nuclear safety. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission, established in 1974, is responsible for regulating nuclear reactors and safeguarding the public from radiation exposure. The agency is overseen by presidentially-appointed and Senate-approved commissioners serving five-year terms.

Last month, President Trump issued an executive order for significant reforms within the NRC. The order called for a complete overhaul of safety regulations, coordination with other government offices, staff reductions, and a review of radiation safety standards. This was part of a series of orders aimed at supporting the nuclear industry in the United States.