Thorium Reactors. Why is the US so far behind?

Why hasn’t the Unites States put Thorium Reactor research as a Priority? We are way behind when compared to other countries like China. In 2021, China completed its first experimental thorium molten salt reactor, with plans to develop commercial reactors in the 20 thirties. The United States should work to be the leader in Thorium Reactor technology to provide clean and safe energy for the future.