U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. raised eyebrows after posting photos of himself swimming in Washington, D.C.’s Rock Creek—despite longstanding federal warnings about dangerous bacterial contamination, including E. coli.
The 71-year-old shared the images on social media, showing a family outing on Mother’s Day at Dumbarton Oaks Park. In the photos, Kennedy is seen wading and fully submerged in the shallow creek alongside his grandchildren.
Health officials, however, have long advised against any contact with Rock Creek’s water. The National Park Service (NPS) warns that the creek harbors high levels of harmful bacteria and pathogens that pose serious health risks to both people and animals. Additionally, staying out of the water helps protect the fragile ecosystem by reducing erosion and minimizing harm to local wildlife.
Swimming and wading in natural bodies of water in Washington, D.C. have been officially banned for over 50 years due to chronic pollution. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has identified Rock Creek as a hotspot for fecal contamination, largely due to sewage overflows and stormwater runoff.
Despite clearly posted signs and health advisories, some residents and visitors continue to engage in recreational activities in the creek—now including a senior government official.
Source: ABC News
