US Faces Nuclear Power Gap with China, Experts Push for Reindustrialization at Kennedy Center Premiere

Washington D.C. – The premiere of "The Nuclear Frontier" documentary at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts on September 15 ignited a critical discussion on American reindustrialization, with experts highlighting the nation's nuclear power expansion lagging significantly behind China. The event featured a reindustrialization panel including American Conservation Coalition (ACC) President Chris Barnard, former U.S. Representative Mike Gallagher, Austin Bishop, and Patrick Maloney, who underscored nuclear energy's vital role in national security and meeting surging energy demands.

The documentary, narrated by actor Boyd Holbrook and directed by Evan Mascagni, explores the movement to expand nuclear power in the United States. It addresses the challenge of meeting growing energy needs, particularly from the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence (AI) data centers, and America's competition with China in zero-carbon nuclear technology. The film notes that the U.S. has built only two nuclear reactors in the last 30 years, while China has constructed 37 in the past decade alone.

ACC President Chris Barnard, whose organization advocates for market-based environmental solutions, emphasized nuclear energy's importance. "Nuclear energy is essential for America’s energy future," Barnard stated, adding, "It’s a clean, reliable, and powerful source of energy that can help us meet our growing electricity needs, especially with the rise of AI and other emerging technologies." He highlighted the need for policies that streamline licensing and promote advanced reactor development.

Former U.S. Representative Mike Gallagher, now Head of Defense at Palantir, participated in the panel, bringing his expertise in national security and strategic competition. Gallagher, who previously chaired the House Select Committee on Strategic Competition between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party, aligns with the documentary's theme of bolstering American industrial and technological leadership. His involvement underscores the geopolitical implications of nuclear energy development.

Austin Bishop, Co-Founder of Reindustrialize and CEO of the New American Industrial Alliance, contributed to the discussion on strengthening America's industrial base. His organizations advocate for robust manufacturing and the integration of advanced energy technologies, including nuclear power, to revitalize domestic industry and ensure energy independence. Patrick Maloney, Co-Founder and CEO of Critical Infrastructure Ventures (CIV), also joined the panel, focusing on the role of private capital in developing critical infrastructure projects, particularly advanced nuclear technologies, to enhance national security and industrial resilience.

Following its premiere, "The Nuclear Frontier" is embarking on a nine-state tour, with screenings planned at 14 college campuses. This tour aims to engage the next generation of leaders and foster a national dialogue on the future of nuclear power and its strategic importance for America's reindustrialization efforts.