Noem swipes at Democrats over DHS shutdown after DC emergency declaration for Potomac spill
The Hill
by Sarah DavisFebruary 21, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Secretary Kristi Noem of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has criticized Democratic lawmakers for their refusal to support a funding package aimed at addressing the ongoing waste cleanup in the Potomac River. This spat unfolded as President Trump approved Washington, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser’s request for federal disaster assistance following her declaration of a local emergency due to the spill.
The situation highlights the ongoing political impasse between the federal government and Democrats who are withholding support for DHS funding. Despite President Trump's approval of aid for D.C., Secretary Noem emphasized that Democrats' lack of backing for the broader DHS package is hindering efforts to secure adequate resources for critical operations, including disaster response.
This conflict underscores the broader challenges in coordinating federal and local responses to emergencies when political disagreements over funding persist. The Potomac River spill serves as a backdrop for this debate, illustrating how partisan divides can impede effective crisis management. Readers interested in politics will find this development significant, as it reflects deeper issues of governance and resource allocation during times of need.
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Originally published on The Hill on 2/21/2026