Interior Secretary Doug Burgum engaged in a debate with CNN’s Dana Bash regarding damage to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool in Washington, D.C. Bash questioned whether vandals were responsible for cutting the newly installed liner. Burgum asserted that officials have evidence of vandalism, with photographs taken during the drainage process indicating deliberate damage.
Bash asked Burgum if he was certain that vandalism was the cause of the damage and could prove it. Burgum responded, “Absolutely you can.” He mentioned that photographs will show evidence as they drain the pool.
The discussion continued with Bash probing whether officials had images showing someone cutting a large gash in the pool’s bottom. Burgum emphasized the durability of the industrial liner, comparing it to the type used in pickup truck beds. He stated the material was strong, likening it to eight football fields in size, and insisted the damage was due to intentional cuts rather than a result of peeling.
Burgum provided further details about the liner and its physical characteristics, asserting that the pattern of damage supports the idea of it being physically cut. He mentioned prior issues with the pool, such as leaking a significant amount of water daily. These were resolved with the renovation efforts under President Trump.
During the Fourth of July celebrations, fireworks setup necessitated the closure of the pool, according to Burgum. He defended the Trump administration’s renovation work, claiming the condition of Washington D.C. prior to renovations was severely neglected, referencing graffiti.
Burgum also addressed queries regarding potential damage from President Trump’s motorcade, clarifying that the motorcade did not drive over the pool using the heavy presidential vehicle known as “The Beast.”
The administration plans to employ the same company for repairs, having been impressed with their previous work. While the vandalism was damaging, it affected a small area and may cost tens of thousands to fix. The Associated Press noted Burgum’s announcement that the pool would need partial drainage for repairs, with no plans for opening bids to new contractors. Contracts had been awarded to Green Water Solutions and Atlantic Industrial Coatings for related services.
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