A wave of optimism has surrounded the U.S. nuclear energy sector in recent years, but that momentum now faces mounting headwinds. Canceled data center projects, a shaky economic outlook, and uncertainty over tariffs have raised new questions about whether America’s nuclear renaissance can stay on track. With nuclear power poised to play a vital role in both the clean energy transition and global strategic competition, the stakes are high—not just for jobs and innovation, but for U.S. influence in a world increasingly shaped by Chinese and Russian state-backed exporters. Can the United States secure its place as a global nuclear leader, or is it falling behind in a high-stakes race?

In this episode, Paul Saunders speaks with Dr. Jennifer Gordon, Director of the Nuclear Energy Policy Initiative at the Atlantic Council. Gordon previously co-directed the Atlantic Council's task force on U.S. nuclear energy leadership.

Music by Sonican from Pixabay.