President Donald Trump declared Sunday that the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool will be emptied shortly after the nation's 250th anniversary celebrations, alleging that vandals and criminals are responsible for damage to the pool's lining and an outbreak of algae.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump wrote, "The Reflecting Pool is now in full use after suffering great damage from Criminal, Radical Left Vandals, people that truly hate our Country." He added, "It never worked properly until last week and, right after July 4th, when we will drain the water to treat the damage caused by these 'animals,' it will again be in perfect shape."
The administration spent nearly $15 million this spring on renovations, including a new blue lining, leak repairs, and the installation of nano-bubblers designed to prevent algae. However, the fixes proved short-lived, with a massive algal bloom and peeling paint reported in recent weeks.
Both Trump and the National Park Service have claimed the pool's bottom was deliberately cut with a sharp knife or razor. Trump elaborated, "They cut the lower surface of a very expensive and strong waterproof padding, in the color of American Flag Blue, and put their hands underneath the surface, and ripped it."
This latest renovation is part of a broader pattern of Trump's second-term projects, including the controversial construction of a ballroom at the White House after demolishing the East Wing. Critics, such as former President Joe Biden, have labeled these efforts "vanity projects," as reported in a recent Democratic gala speech.
Trump also used his Sunday post to discuss the East Potomac Golf Links, describing it as "dilapidated, worn out, and very dangerous." He pledged to oversee the creation of "one of the Greatest Golf Courses anywhere in the World" on the site, with views of Washington's monuments, and promised public access.
The president's focus on these projects comes amid other political battles, including a rule targeting food stamp loopholes that has drawn criticism from the left. The reflecting pool saga underscores ongoing tensions over federal property management and the administration's priorities.
