Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool Drained for Repairs

President Trump announced that the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool has been drained to carry out essential repairs. This follows repeated criticisms of alleged vandalism. On Truth social, he stated, “We drained the beautiful ‘Reflecting Pool’ today to fix the scars and damage done by the vandals two weeks ago.” He emphasized that the Parks Department had to empty the pool to repair the watertight basin and assured that it will soon be refilled.

In April, efforts began to renovate the Reflecting Pool as part of a series of projects leading to the nation’s 250th birthday. However, these efforts encountered difficulties. Earlier in the summer, algae turned the water bright green, and tears appeared in the new surface of the pool.

The National Park Service disclosed last month that damage was inflicted by a sharp knife, contradicting the president’s previous claims of vandal damage. Evidence to support this was unclear. Several arrests have been made in connection to the pool’s damage. U.S. Olympic canoeist David Hearn pleaded not guilty to charges after allegedly tearing a portion of the pool’s sealant. He explained he was curious about the material and only made brief contact during a 64-mile bike ride.

On Monday, President Trump reiterated that those responsible should face severe consequences. He claimed, “Slashes were 300 yards long, and the pool’s floor was cut and then pulled upward with force by these thugs.” He mentioned that repair work was deferred to post-July 4th Weekend to accommodate visitors.

CBS News’ Ed O’Keefe queried the president in late June regarding evidence for his assertions. Trump responded, “Yeah, at the right time you’ll see it. You’ll see it in court. You’ll see it in court, but all you have to do is call the Parks Department, call the Department of Interior.”