Bowser requests disaster declaration
Washington, D.C., Mayor Muriel Bowser has declared a disaster emergency in response to the massive sewage spill into the Potomac River. On Wednesday, she formally asked President Donald Trump to approve a federal emergency declaration. If granted, the move would unlock federal funding and resources to help contain and clean up the damage.
The spill has released more than 240 million gallons of untreated sewage into the river, making it the largest such incident in U.S. history. As a result, concerns have grown about environmental damage and public health risks in the nation’s capital.
White House pressures local leaders
During a press briefing, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said the president is worried about the impact the spill could have on Washington, especially with major national celebrations approaching this summer. She urged officials in Maryland, Virginia, and D.C. to request federal assistance under the Stafford Act so Washington can take a leading role in repairs and cleanup efforts.
Leavitt also criticized Maryland Gov. Wes Moore, arguing that the state has not done enough to maintain its aging water systems. She pointed to recent infrastructure report cards that gave Maryland’s water and wastewater systems low marks. According to the White House, those grades show little progress in recent years.
Furthermore, Leavitt said environmental advocates should support federal involvement if it speeds up repairs and prevents long term ecological harm. However, she stressed that state and local officials must formally request help before the federal government can step in fully.
Maryland pushes back
Moore’s office strongly disputed the White House claims. A spokesperson said the federal government has long been responsible for the Potomac Interceptor, the system linked to the rupture. They argued that Washington had not acted quickly enough and failed to take responsibility for infrastructure under federal oversight.
The spokesperson also criticized the Environmental Protection Agency for not participating in a recent legislative hearing focused on the cleanup. According to Moore’s team, federal agencies share responsibility for both oversight and repairs tied to the damaged system.
Political and environmental stakes
The dispute has added political tension to an already serious environmental crisis. While city officials focus on cleanup, federal and state leaders continue to debate who bears responsibility for the spill and the delayed repairs.
At the same time, residents and environmental groups remain concerned about contamination in the Potomac River. Many are calling for immediate action, stronger infrastructure oversight, and a clear plan to prevent future failures.
For now, Bowser’s request puts the decision in President Trump’s hands. Whether the White House approves a disaster declaration could shape how quickly the region recovers from one of the worst sewage spills on record.
