Potomac Phil Predicts Early Spring, More Political Gridlock

Warm weather — and more political gridlock — is on the way.

That’s the prediction Dupont Circle’s own Groundhog Day groundhog, Potomac Phil, made earlier this morning.

Happening now at Dupont Circle. Happy Groundhog Day! pic.twitter.com/xbN8lcACrU

— Tim Regan (@MrTimRegan) February 2, 2016

Legend has it that Phil, who is Dupont Circle’s stuffed marmot mascot, has the ability to predict the future. Each year, he quietly makes his weather and political forecast among dozens of his neighbors and adoring fans.

Despite the warm sun shining upon his fur earlier this morning, Potomac Phil did not catch a glimpse of his shadow, meaning that spring is coming. Phil did note that more political gridlock is on the way for D.C., but that’s a prediction he makes every year.

Ward 2 D.C. Councilmember Jack Evans and several ANC 2B commissioners donned top hats and hoisted signs proclaiming Phil’s greatness to celebrate the annual event organized by Dupont Festival principal Aaron DeNu.

“No matter what your politics are, just remember: You can’t trump Potomac Phil!” Evans exclaimed after the prediction.