Trump EPA Chief Pledges Action on Mexican Sewage Crisis Polluting San Diego Beaches

Lee Zeldin, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) chief under the Trump administration, has announced plans to visit the San Diego-Mexico border soon to address the growing crisis of toxic waste and sewage runoff from the Tijuana River. This pollution has already caused more than 1,000 beach closures in Imperial Beach and sparked health issues for Navy SEAL trainees.

In a strong statement, Zeldin emphasized that "Mexico must fully honor its commitment to control their country’s growing pollution and sewage impacting the United States." He added, "The time when excuses, delays, or exceptions are tolerated is over." The EPA plans to collaborate more aggressively with local agencies in Southern California and Mexico to tackle this issue head-on.

For years, untreated sewage from Tijuana has flowed into San Diego’s beaches, but the situation worsened in January when a malfunction at the Hollister Wastewater Pump Station spilled 30,000 gallons of sewage into the river. Zeldin's upcoming visit aims to assess the problem firsthand and push for permanent solutions.

It’s worth noting that while millions in federal funding have been proposed to repair and expand the South Bay International Wastewater Treatment Plant, opposition remains strong among Republicans, including former President Trump, who view the spending as wasteful. Zeldin and other officials argue that the burden of wastewater management should fall squarely on Mexico. "Mexico needs to build and properly operate the infrastructure necessary to treat all the sewage generated by Tijuana," an EPA spokesperson stated. "U.S. taxpayer dollars shouldn’t foot the bill for Mexico’s responsibilities."

San Diego County Supervisor Jim Desmond recently described the situation as "one of the biggest environmental and public health crises." He highlighted the dangers to Navy SEALs, local families, and even tourism, adding, "Many politicians have made promises — but delivered nothing. That ends now."

A report released last month by the Department of Defense's Inspector General revealed that 76% of tested water samples exceeded safety limits for bacteria, and over 1,100 health issues, mainly gastrointestinal illnesses, were reported among SEAL trainees exposed to the toxic water.

California Governor Gavin Newsom's office acknowledged the longstanding issue, with a spokesperson noting that the state has been working on solutions for years. "We welcome collaboration with the Trump Administration to continue efforts to clean up the Tijuana River," the statement said. However, it’s clear that patience is wearing thin on all sides.

Let’s be real—this is more than just an environmental problem; it’s a political and public health powder keg. When Navy SEAL trainees can’t even train in safe waters, you know it’s time for action. Hopefully, Zeldin’s visit will turn promises into meaningful change.