The World Next Week
The World Next Week

TWNW Presents: Why It Matters

The first episode of CFR's new podcast, Why it Matters, takes a look at nuclear launch authority in the United States.

November 12, 2019 — 27:25 min
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  • Gabrielle Sierra
    Director, Podcasting
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Show Notes

In the United States, the president has sole and unconstrained power to launch a first-strike nuclear attack. While the system is built to provide the president with as much expert advice as possible, consultation is not legally required, and some experts say that such an order could be executed in a matter of minutes. 

 

Today, we unpack the president’s sole authority to launch, and its implications for national and global security. Is it wise to invest so much power in the hands of one person? What are the alternatives? Gabrielle Sierra explores a system that has been overlooked for years, as she sits down with three nuclear security experts.

 

Want to learn more? Subscribe to Why It Matters on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play, or wherever you get your audio!

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