Trump says Reflecting Pool was ‘vandalized’ after costly renovation

LocalPolitics
23 Jun 2026 • 5:00 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Trump says Reflecting Pool was ‘vandalized’ after costly renovation

  • President Donald Trump claimed "vandals" poured chemicals into the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, causing it to turn green after his administration's multi-million-dollar renovation.
  • The pool, which Trump had promised would be "the most beautiful thing that you've ever seen," quickly developed algae and chipped paint shortly after its completion.
  • Trump's administration used hydrogen peroxide and "advanced nanobubbler technology" to treat the algae, with the Interior Department claiming success despite photos showing lingering green areas.
  • Trump alleged "chemicals have been illegally placed" and a 300-foot gash was made, leading to arrests, including former Olympic athlete David Hearn, who denied causing damage.
  • The renovation has already cost over $14 million, and Trump suggested the pool might need draining for further repairs, while a U.S. Attorney warned against vandalizing government property.

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