Illustration: Gabriella Turrisi/Axios
We'll get a close look at NRC Chair Christopher Hanson's future this week.
Why it matters: Hanson's confirmation hearing comes at a critical time, with the commission trying to figure out how to license next-generation nuclear reactors.
Driving the news: The Environment and Public Works Committee will question Hanson Wednesday, as Democrats look to get his renomination through the Senate before his current term expires June 30.
The intrigue: Ranking Member Shelley Moore Capito already sank one NRC nom — Jeff Baran — because she thought he wasn't friendly enough to advanced nuclear.
- But Hanson may have alleviated similar concerns about his nomination with recent revisions to the Part 53 rulemaking that could ease the path for advanced reactors.
- That helped show Hanson is "embracing the opportunity for the NRC to evolve," said Ryan Norman of Third Way.
- The issue has garnered intense attention from nuclear boosters on both sides of the aisle.
What they're saying: Capito told Axios last week she has a "good relationship" with Hanson, but also has questions about "the way the commission has been run."
