Trump blames “vandalism” for reflecting pool concerns
President Donald Trump on Friday blamed “vandalism” for damage to the newly renovated Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, as officials grapple with a persistent algae bloom and reports of peeling surface material.
In a lengthy Truth Social post, Trump claimed unknown actors—and ABC News reporter Jonathan Karl—had interfered with the pool, which has drawn scrutiny after turning green just days after a multimillion-dollar overhaul.
The project, meant to deliver “American flag blue” water, has instead been plagued by algae growth and visible deterioration, with crews working to restore conditions as investigators probe alleged damage.
Trump Reacts to Reflecting Pool Concerns, Promises Fixes
Trump said Friday on Truth Social that his administration has “cleaned, renovated, and beautified” dozens of sites across Washington, D.C., while touting what he described as improved public safety in the capital. But he claimed recent damage to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool was the result of “real problems with vandalism,” alleging unknown individuals used chemicals and other methods to harm the newly installed surface and surrounding grounds.
Trump also took aim at Karl, claiming the reporter was seen “sticking his hand into the Pool” and “trying to rip the rubber off of the surface.”
He added that the algae problem is “75% gone” and said the damage is limited and will be repaired “early next week,” noting law enforcement is investigating the incident.
Scott Jennings, former adviser to ex-President George W. Bush, reacted to Trump’s claims while speaking with CNN’s Kaitlan Collins on Friday night, saying it is “absolutely true” that someone vandalized the grass.
“You have people that hate Donald Trump so much that they would go out and destroy our national monuments. Vandalize the Lincoln Memorial, vandalize the grass. That’s how broken brained they are.”
Jennings praised Trump for his efforts in cleaning up the nation’s capital, adding, “I hope they get put in jail.”
This is a breaking news article. Updates to follow.
