Trump says federal government to step in to 'protect' Potomac river amid sewage leak

WASHINGTON, Feb 16 (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump said on Monday the federal government will step in to "protect" the Potomac River following the collapse of a major sewer pipe in the Washington, D.C., region and accused local officials of mismanaging waste management systems.

"I am directing Federal Authorities to immediately provide all necessary Management, Direction, and Coordination to protect the Potomac, the Water Supply in the Capital Region, and our treasured National Resources in our Nation's Capital City," Trump, who has attempted to assert federal control over cities and states governed by Democrats, said on social media.