Trump says Reflecting Pool was ‘vandalized’ after costly renovation
Trump now blames ‘box cutter or knife’ for Reflecting Pool woes as blue paint peels off algae-plagued icon
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.
