Charleston Leader

U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito, the Ranking Member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, has voted against Matthew Marzano's nomination to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). During a business meeting in Washington, D.C., Senator Capito expressed concerns about Marzano's experience and its potential impact on the NRC's effectiveness.

In her opening statement, Capito acknowledged the history of the NRC and the quality of previous commissioners. She emphasized that Marzano's lack of experience could hinder both the commission's efficiency and nuclear energy's potential. "Given the crossroads that the NRC is facing... it is imperative that we take into consideration the breadth and depth of this nominee’s background," she stated.

Capito also addressed what she perceived as an exaggeration by the White House regarding Marzano’s experience in nuclear energy. She pointed out that while Marzano has training and work experience at a power plant, this does not equate to setting policy or adjudicating significant legal issues.

She highlighted Congress’s intention with the ADVANCE Act to improve NRC operations, noting Chair Hanson's interpretation as merely an endorsement of current practices. Capito criticized recommendations from NRC staff for updating its Mission Statement as insufficiently ambitious.

Ultimately, Capito concluded that Marzano lacks "the necessary background and experience" needed for change at the commission, stating her decision to vote against his nomination.