Trump Vetoes Bipartisan Clean-Water Lifeline for Rural Colorado

Trump Vetoes Bipartisan Clean-Water Lifeline for Rural Colorado

SOUTHEASTERN COLORADO—President Donald Trump late Friday wielded his veto pen against a bipartisan bill that would have delivered federal funds to replace aging wells and contaminated aquifers across the windswept plains of Baca, Bent, and Prowers counties.

A Promise Broken on the High Plains

For rancher Maria Alvarado, the news came over a crackling truck radio while she hauled hay to 300 head of cattle. “I had to pull over,” she said, voice trembling. “We were told help was finally on the way.”

“We’re not asking for luxury—just water that won’t make our kids sick.”—Maria Alvarado, rancher, Prowers County

The bill, co-sponsored by Republican Senator Cory Gardner and Democratic Representative Diana DeGette, passed the Senate 68–29 and the House 312–95. It authorized $250 million to upgrade pipelines and treatment plants in regions where nitrate levels routinely exceed EPA limits.

White House: ‘Too Much Spending’

In his veto message, the president called the measure “an unnecessary federal giveaway” and argued it “circumvents state authority.” The administration claimed the funds could be better used for “urban infrastructure priorities.”

• Rural water systems serve just 8% of Colorado’s population but occupy 47% of its landmass.
• Engineering estimates show 1,200 miles of pipe need immediate replacement.
• Local hospitals report rising cases of kidney issues linked to agricultural runoff.

Next Moves on Capitol Hill

Supporters are scrambling for the two-thirds majority needed to override the veto. Senator Gardner, walking back to the Capitol after the announcement, told reporters, “This isn’t partisan—this is poison in the well water.”

If the override fails, state officials say they will seek private bonds, a path that could triple household water bills already among the nation’s highest relative to income.

For now, families in towns like Walsh and Springfield will keep stocking cases of bottled water on front porches, praying the next president—or the next storm—brings relief.