Trump Picks Ex-Congressman to Manage U.S. Nuclear Arsenal

In a controversial decision, former President Donald Trump appointed former Texas congressman Rick Perry to oversee the U.S. nuclear arsenal as Secretary of Energy. The move raised concerns among experts, as Perry, who once proposed eliminating the very department he was chosen to lead, lacked formal expertise in nuclear policy or physics.

The Department of Energy (DOE) is responsible for maintaining the safety and security of the nation’s nuclear weapons stockpile, as well as managing nuclear waste and conducting energy research. Traditionally, the role has been filled by individuals with scientific or technical backgrounds, making Perry’s appointment an unusual choice.

Perry, who served as Texas governor for 14 years, had experience managing energy policies at the state level but initially admitted to misunderstanding the full scope of the DOE’s responsibilities. However, he later expressed commitment to supporting the agency’s national security mission and advancing energy innovation.

Critics argued that placing a politician with limited nuclear expertise in charge of such a critical department could weaken U.S. nuclear oversight. Supporters, however, pointed to Perry’s executive experience and ability to navigate political landscapes as valuable assets in managing the DOE’s vast responsibilities.

Despite initial skepticism, Perry served nearly three years in the role, focusing on expanding U.S. energy production and modernizing nuclear infrastructure. His tenure highlighted the ongoing debate over whether scientific expertise or political leadership is more important in overseeing America’s nuclear arsenal.