Missouri Seeks to Become Global Producer of Small Nuclear Reactors

[GliderGuider]

10. Mmmm

Support for nuclear: Broad but shallow?

Digging into the Gallup data, one observes that strong support and opposition have both historically ranged around 23% and 21%, respectively; the bulk of support and opposition has been in the more moderated "somewhat support" (33%) and "somewhat oppose" (19%). How has this changed in the events following Fukushima? Overall, not much - overall support remains constant at 57%, although one observes some erosion in self-identified "strong" support. Meanwhile, strong opposition has hardened (growing from 18% to 24% in the last polling period).

Polls are not a reliable determinant of public policy, of course. As I said, we'll see.

But it wouldn't surprise me at all to find out that the opponents of nuclear power become quite hard-line when they are given openings such as public hearings on life extensions or new plants. They know that Fukushima has given them a precious wedge to drive into the process. Here's hoping they succeed.