The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool in Washington, D.C., is undergoing additional repairs following damage and an algae infestation that have drawn significant attention and controversy ahead of the nation’s 250th anniversary celebration. President Donald Trump on Monday attributed the deterioration to deliberate acts of vandalism, alleging that individuals armed with a box cutter caused a 290- to 350-foot-long slit in the pool’s new liner. He also suggested that fertilizer or other substances were intentionally introduced into the water to promote the growth of algae, which turned the pool’s surface a deep green.
Trump made these remarks during a press interaction in the Oval Office, insisting the damage occurred when there was limited security presence at the site. He characterized the vandalism as unprecedented and insisted that those responsible face severe legal consequences, citing a 10-year prison sentence for defacing federal properties. The President also highlighted other acts of defacement on the National Mall, including large etchings of the numbers “86 47,” a phrase linked to former FBI Director James Comey.
The Reflecting Pool has been under scrutiny since its recent $14.8 million renovation, part of an effort led by the Trump administration to refurbish and redesign the landmark with a new “American flag blue” coating. However, shortly after completion, an intense algae bloom covered the pool, turning its surface a murky green. In response, federal workers employed various treatments, including the application of hydrogen peroxide and the use of ozone nanobubbles, to reduce the algae presence.
Federal authorities confirmed the need to drain the pool once again to repair the damaged liner. National Guard members and U.S. Park Police have been deployed to patrol the area in an effort to prevent further incidents. The White House reports that multiple arrests linked to the damage have been made, although details remain sparse and law enforcement agencies such as the Washington Police Department have stated they are not involved in the investigation.
Images circulating on social media showed dead wildlife, including a duckling found floating in the algae-covered water. Government officials have emphasized that chemical treatments used are considered safe and carry no harmful effects on marine life or the environment.
The renovation and its aftermath have drawn mixed public reactions, with some critics questioning the administration’s handling of the project and the security measures protecting the Reflecting Pool. A former Olympic canoeist was briefly detained after coming into contact with deteriorating sections of the liner, illustrating ongoing concerns about public access and the condition of the landmark.
As the July 4 holiday approaches, efforts continue to restore the Reflecting Pool to its intended appearance. The administration has promised a rapid resolution, but the timeline for completion remains uncertain.