Interior Secretary Doug Burgum on Saturday pledged "full" prosecution for individuals who caused approximately $350 feet of damage to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool and left anti-Trump graffiti. Burgum stated that such acts constitute an attack on the nation and its most sacred monuments.
During an appearance on "Fox & Friends Weekend," Burgum detailed the administration's response to the vandalism, noting that seven arrests have been made, multiple citations issued, and 18 police reports filed in connection with the incident. Investigators believe a box cutter was used to inflict the damage to the pool's industrial rubber liner. Among the markings left behind were "8647," which some interpreted as a call to violence or to remove the president.
President Donald Trump also commented on the incident, stating that the newly restored Reflecting Pool had been deliberately targeted. He described the damage as a "scar 350-feet-long" and asserted that the perpetrators "want to destroy our country."
The vandalism occurred despite efforts by the Trump administration to restore and beautify national landmarks in the capital in preparation for the country's 250th anniversary celebration. According to Burgum, over 50 parks and circles, 48 monuments, 22 fountains, and approximately 1,700 lights have been repaired across the National Mall.
Fencing has been erected around the Reflecting Pool as the investigation continues. The fencing also serves to protect the pool in advance of July 4 festivities, which are scheduled to include fireworks displays near the monument.