Phil Mickelson, a LIV Golf star and one of the most recognizable faces in professional golf, has publicly acknowledged the growing concern over the sewage crisis that continues to affect the San Diego area. This issue has recently gained increased attention with the involvement of local political figures like San Diego County District 5 Supervisor Jim Desmond, who has been vocal about the problem’s detrimental effects on the community. Desmond highlighted the closure of beaches near the iconic Hotel Del during Memorial Day weekend, which underscores the severity of the situation as millions of gallons of sewage from Mexico flow into the U.S. waters.
Desmond’s recent statements, made in a public meeting, revealed that the sewage crisis is not only affecting recreational areas but also has a serious impact on public health and military installations. He noted that the Navy SEALs, who train in the area, are facing health challenges due to the pollution. His call for Mexico to take responsibility for upgrading its aging wastewater infrastructure has sparked debate. However, Desmond’s efforts to push for legislative action were met with resistance from his colleagues, who have been unwilling to take a more assertive stance on the issue.
Additionally, Mickelson, known for his strong opinions on various topics, has also expressed his concerns regarding the matter. His social media comment, responding to Desmond’s post, suggests that he is not only aware of the issue but also concerned about its implications. The EPA’s involvement, led by Administrator Lee Zeldin, offers a potential path toward resolution, with a proposed 100% solution pending agreement from both nations. This development indicates that there is hope for a long-term fix to the decades-old problem, which has been exacerbated by population growth in Tijuana, Mexico.
The situation has drawn the attention of various stakeholders, including the Department of Defense, which recently released a report detailing the health impacts of the contaminated water on Navy SEAL candidates. The report found that over 1,168 cases of gastrointestinal illnesses were linked to the polluted environment between 2019 and 2023. These findings further emphasize the urgency of addressing the sewage crisis not only for environmental reasons but also for public health and national security purposes.
The ongoing efforts to resolve this issue reflect a broader discussion on cross-border environmental challenges and the need for cooperative solutions. While the political landscape remains divided, the combined pressure from local officials, public figures, and environmental agencies signals that a resolution may be on the horizon, though much work remains to be done.