President Donald Trump accused vandalism of causing damage to the newly renovated Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. The allegations come as officials deal with persistent algae blooms and reports of peeling surface material.
In a detailed post on Truth Social, Trump suggested unknown actors, along with ABC News reporter Jonathan Karl, interfered with the pool. The pool, turning green shortly after a multimillion-dollar renovation, was intended to showcase ‘American flag blue’ water. It has instead faced algae growth and visible deterioration. Crews are working to restore conditions while investigations into alleged vandalism are ongoing.
Trump Promises Repairs
On Friday, Trump stated that his administration has renovated numerous sites in Washington, D.C., emphasizing enhanced public safety in the area. He attributed the damage to ‘real problems’ with vandalism, suggesting individuals used chemicals to harm the pool and surrounding grounds. Trump criticized Karl, claiming he was seen trying to damage the pool’s surface.
Trump noted that the algae issue is ’75 percent gone’ and repairs would occur ‘early next week.’ Law enforcement is investigating the matter.
Scott Jennings, former adviser to President George W. Bush, told CNN’s Kaitlan Collins that it is ‘absolutely true’ someone vandalized the grass. ‘People hate Donald Trump enough to destroy national monuments,’ Jennings remarked, applauding Trump for his renovation efforts and adding that responsible parties should face consequences.
Algae Bloom and Peeling Surface Prompt Questions
The Reflecting Pool issues surfaced days after completion of the $14 million renovation. The renovation aimed to paint the basin darker blue and enhance water quality for the nation’s 250th anniversary celebrations. Yet, days after refilling, algae spread quickly, turning water green and necessitating cleanup by National Park Service crews.
Experts report such blooms are common in shallow sunlit areas like the Reflecting Pool, particularly during heat. Preventing them entirely is challenging. To manage growth, hydrogen peroxide and ozone-based filtration technologies are being employed.
John Wilson Jr., President of Aqua Doc Lake and Pond, told Newsweek, ‘Filling water bodies can trigger algae blooms due to stagnant water combined with sunlight and warming conditions.’
Peeling material along the pool’s floor has added scrutiny to the project. Visitors have noted fragments in the water, with some tourists reportedly handling loose pieces. This raises further concerns about maintenance and durability so soon after renovation. Officials describe the algae as part of a ‘normal startup process’ due to dormant supply lines and environmental factors, though efforts to address discoloration continue ahead of major summer events on the National Mall.
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