Vandalism on National Mall Sparks Strong Response from Interior Secretary

Interior Secretary Doug Burgum addressed recent acts of vandalism at the National Mall, particularly the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. Vandals caused significant damage, including a 350-foot cut into the pool’s liner, accompanied by anti-Trump graffiti.

Burgum emphasized the seriousness of these actions, calling them attacks on the nation’s cherished monuments. He assured the public that offenders would face legal penalties, stating, “They are going to be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.” During an appearance on “Fox & Friends Weekend,” he discussed the seven arrests, multiple citations, and 18 police reports filed in response.

The White House criticized the acts as ‘targeted sabotage,’ especially due to disruptions pushing repairs beyond the planned July 4 celebrations. Authorities believe a box cutter was used to inflict damage across the pool’s industrial rubber lining.

Burgum noted, “When people use box cutters for vandalism, it is as serious as throwing paint on Lincoln’s statue in the eyes of the law.”

Images revealed anti-Trump markings left by the vandals. The number “8647” was among them, interpreted in various ways, including as a call to action against the president.

President Trump addressed the incident, lamenting the targeted nature of the vandalism. He spoke out, saying, “These are people that want to destroy our country.” He highlighted efforts by the administration to restore and enhance the capital in preparation for America’s 250th anniversary.

As part of these efforts, more than 50 parks and circles were restored, with 48 monuments repaired, 22 fountains returned to service, and approximately 1,700 lights fixed. To protect the area, a fence now surrounds the Reflecting Pool, reinforcing security especially as July 4 festivities, including fireworks, approach.