By John Q. Hosedrinker 
President Trump signed an executive order to increase water flow in showerheads, reversing an Obama-era regulation that limited multi-nozzle showerheads to a combined 2.5 gallons per minute. This action aims to repeal what the White House calls a “radical green agenda,” allowing for higher water flow per nozzle as originally intended in a 1992 energy law. The order claims to free Americans from excessive regulation and restore stronger water pressure, a move opposed by consumer and conservation groups citing concerns about waste and environmental impact. The change will take effect 30 days after the energy secretary publishes a notice.
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Donald Trump signed an executive order aiming to “make America’s showers great again,” a move that has sparked widespread bewilderment and criticism. The timing, coinciding with a significant stock market downturn, immediately raised eyebrows, suggesting a deliberate attempt to shift public attention away from more pressing economic concerns.
This isn’t the first time Trump has tackled the issue of shower water pressure. A similar executive order during his first term, focused on reversing water-saving regulations, was later rescinded by President Biden. The White House now claims that the previous regulations imposed a “radical green agenda that made life worse for Americans,” citing Trump’s personal dissatisfaction with what he considers insufficient water pressure. This renewed focus on shower heads feels strikingly familiar, recalling a satirical piece from years ago predicting similar political maneuvering.
The irony of focusing on shower pressure amid growing water scarcity due to climate change hasn’t been lost on many. The executive order, framed as deregulation, seems almost comically out of touch given the severity of other challenges facing the nation. The president’s repeated, lengthy public pronouncements on the subject highlight a bizarre prioritization of trivial matters. It’s a spectacle amplified by his reliance on advisors, noticeable in his frequent glances towards them during press briefings, as though seeking reassurance about his messaging.
This isn’t simply about low-flow shower heads, though. It underscores a pattern of behavior from the former president, showcasing a disregard for due process and court orders, actions that pale in comparison to the gravity of the broader political context. This latest executive order is indicative of a larger concern over his fitness for office, and raises doubts about his leadership capabilities.
The sheer absurdity of the situation is almost unbelievable. The president’s focus on this relatively inconsequential matter while the country faces numerous crises highlights a fundamental disconnect between his priorities and the needs of the nation. The notion of “golden showers” appears to be a particularly ill-chosen reference, given the gravity of the situation and the numerous far more pressing issues facing the United States. Many have pointed out the ease of removing flow restrictors from showerheads, rendering the executive order unnecessary. The fact that this has been presented as a major accomplishment is concerning to say the least.
The entire affair feels increasingly surreal, particularly when juxtaposed with other recent events, like the cabinet meeting characterized by unwavering, almost North Korean-style praise for the president. The lack of critical analysis and the blatant disregard for the rule of law are extremely alarming.
Furthermore, the timing of this executive order, alongside Trump’s own boasts about profiting from market instability, highlights a disturbing trend of prioritizing personal gain over the well-being of the nation. This situation continues to raise uncomfortable questions about the influence of money and power in politics and the priorities of the country’s leadership. The fact that these actions are presented as legitimate political action is deeply disturbing.
Ultimately, the executive order designed to increase shower water pressure stands as a symbol of a leadership focused on trivial pursuits while ignoring significant challenges. It is a striking illustration of a disconnect between the needs of the nation and the priorities of its leader. The controversy underscores a larger pattern of behavior, further fueling concerns about competence and the overall direction of the nation. The long-term implications for water conservation and the environment remain a cause for concern.