On the contrary, the normal reactors produce extremely "hot" waste that lasts a VERY, VERY long time. Breeder reactors are very different. I know wiki's are not perfect, but this is an interesting read:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Breeder_reactor
On your second point:
Just think of some of the presidents of late:
1st job, Governor, 2nd President
1st job, Senator, 2nd President
Lawyer for about 2 years, Senator for about 48 years, President
Those resumes don't strike me as people even able to understand the advice of their advisors on science, technology, economics, etc.
