Trump official buried in mockery after ridiculous claims in hearing: 'Very dumbest people'

Reactions were mounting after a top Trump official made astounding claims at a congressional hearing Wednesday, calling solar power the "cheapest form of energy," saying high gas prices were "exciting," and warning that broken fountains at the nation's capital could cause "serious injury."

Interior Secretary Doug Burgum was answering questions from lawmakers about multiple projects tied to President Donald Trump's 2027 budget request before the House Natural Resources Committee in Washington, D.C.

Several leaders pressed Burgum to respond to questions about why the Trump administration had made certain moves. During a moment between the Trump cabinet member and Rep. Joe Neguse (D-CO), Neguse questioned why a contractor was awarded a $13 million federal contract to restore the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool.

"My understanding is a no-bid contract is reserved for situations where delay would cause serious injury. What's the injury with the reflecting pool?" Neguse asked.

The internet reacted to the comments and interactions.

"The very dumbest people are destroying our country," Lisa Needham, attorney and Daily Kos writer, posted on Bluesky.

"Joe always sounds like he's about to bust out laughing at these fools," abortion advocate and Democratic communications strategist Laura Chapin wrote on Bluesky.

"Burgum is not this stupid. He just hopes enough Americans are," Mark Jacob, former Chicago Sun-Times editor and author, wrote on Bluesky.

"No healthcare or lowering the cost of living, but there's a GOD D--- FOUNTAIN CRISIS we must take care of now????" Shannon Spohn, owner of Bayou Communications Consulting, wrote on X.

"I had no idea there was a city wide fountain crisis. Alert the military!! Oh wait, they’re busy with another Trump autocorrect fiasco. God help us," Chris Robinson, liberal political commentator, wrote on X.