nuclear options

Nuclear options are the most extreme or drastic measures available, held in reserve as a last resort.

The phrase comes from the ultimate destructive power of nuclear weapons.

In politics, the nuclear option typically refers to a procedural maneuver that overrides established rules—particularly in the U.S.

Senate, changing filibuster rules by simple majority vote.

More broadly, any action that would be effective but cause severe collateral damage: Firing the whole team is the nuclear option.