President Donald Trump said Saturday that vandalism damaged the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool and claimed the pool’s water may need to be drained for repairs, though he did not provide evidence to support the assertion.
Trump’s comments come amid growing attention on the recently renovated Reflecting Pool, which has drawn criticism and public scrutiny after visible algae growth and peeling blue material appeared shortly after the project was completed.
Trump’s Claim
Speaking publicly and in posts on Truth Social, Trump said vandals damaged parts of the pool and that law enforcement arrested multiple people in connection with the alleged activity. He said the pool, which underwent a $14 million renovation, would be repaired quickly.
“The Reflecting Pool was never so beautiful as it was just one week ago,” Trump said, adding that the water may need to be drained to address the damage.
Federal authorities have not confirmed the number of arrests or publicly detailed evidence of vandalism.
Arrest at the Pool
One of the individuals arrested, David Hearn, a three-time U.S. Olympic canoeist, told CNN he was detained Friday after touching a partially detached blue material at the bottom of the pool.
Hearn said he stopped by the Reflecting Pool after a bike ride, curious about reports of algae and peeling material. He said he briefly touched a loose flap of blue material but did not remove or damage anything.
According to Hearn, a National Park Service employee told him not to reach into the water. He said he later encountered National Guard members and was arrested by U.S. Park Police. Hearn said he was charged with destruction and defacing government property and disobeying a government employee.
Hearn denied vandalizing the pool and said his actions were those of a “curious citizen.” He is scheduled to appear in court on July 9.
CNN said it has contacted the U.S. Park Police and the National Park Service for comment and clarification.
Renovation Background
Trump has described the Reflecting Pool as a personal priority, previously calling it “absolutely filthy” and pledging to restore it ahead of America’s 250th anniversary.
The project expanded beyond initial plans, including painting the bottom of the pool blue. The administration acknowledged the accelerated timeline, driven by a goal of completing work before July Fourth, increased costs significantly. The renovation ultimately cost nearly seven times the original estimate of $1.8 million.
The project also sparked a lawsuit from a nonprofit group, which argued the Interior Department failed to complete a required federal consultation process before beginning work.
Algae and Maintenance Issues
Just one day after the pool was refilled, algae became visible. The Interior Department described it as “residual algae” and a normal part of restarting water circulation.
As algae growth increased, workers were sent to vacuum the pool, install additional filtration equipment, and add hydrogen peroxide to the water. Officials have said the process is ongoing.
Earlier this week, sections of blue material began peeling from the pool’s bottom. It remains unclear whether the material is paint or sealant and what caused it to detach.
In a post on X, the Interior Department said cleanup efforts were continuing and described the water as “crystal clear,” a claim that has been disputed by visitors and images circulating online.
Public Reaction
The situation has drawn crowds of tourists, local residents, and social media users to the National Mall. Some visitors filmed cleanup efforts, while others criticized the project or defended it.
Democratic lawmakers have questioned the cost and execution of the renovation. Sen. Jeff Merkley of Oregon called the project an “embarrassing waste of resources” in a social media post and said he was seeking answers.
The controversy has also fueled online speculation, false claims, and partisan debate, with some commentators alleging sabotage and others dismissing those claims.
What’s Next
Federal officials have not confirmed whether the Reflecting Pool will be drained or when repairs might occur. Authorities say additional details will be released as investigations continue and cleanup efforts progress.
CNN said it has requested further information from the Interior Department regarding the algae, peeling material, and any vandalism-related arrests.
FAQs
What did Trump claim about the Reflecting Pool?
He said vandalism damaged it and repairs may require draining it.
How much did the renovation cost?
About $14 million.
Why is the pool controversial now?
Algae growth and peeling blue material appeared after renovation.
Was anyone arrested?
Yes, at least one person was arrested and denies vandalism.
Is the cleanup finished?
No, officials say work is ongoing.
