President Donald Trump announced that the White House is seeking "vandal proof material" after the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool sustained alleged damage.
In a statement on Truth Social, Trump described the damage as a "massive slash" to the pool's new facade, stating that it was "so badly damaged by Deranged Vandals." He questioned the motivation behind such actions, asking, "What kind of animals would do such a thing?"
The president further commented on the incident, suggesting that "such a thing should not have been necessary" and expressing hope that "the Scum in Court will hopefully be prosecuted to the MAX."
According to reports, the pool was emptied to repair a significant gash, which Trump claimed was made with a "knife or blade" and measured approximately 250 feet long. Additionally, he stated that "corrosive and destructive chemicals" were poured into the pool.
This incident follows a restoration project ordered by Trump earlier in the year, aimed at refurbishing Washington, D.C. landmarks ahead of the nation's 250th anniversary. The project had previously encountered issues, including an algae bloom and peeling of the pool's new blue coating.
The National Park Service responded to a report of damage at the Reflecting Pool on June 9. Investigators found that caulk had been spread over foam sealant that had been cut, the new surface coating was damaged, and approximately 70 fence post caps were discovered in the pool.
In connection with the alleged vandalism, former U.S. Olympic canoeist David Hearn was indicted on a felony destruction of property charge. Hearn has denied deliberately damaging the pool, explaining that he touched a loose piece of the peeling coating out of curiosity during a bike ride. He has pleaded not guilty to the charges.
