President Donald Trump stated Tuesday that six individuals have been arrested for damaging the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, a site undergoing renovations that have drawn presidential attention. Trump also claimed, without providing evidence, that seven others were cited for similar offenses.
In a social media post, Trump alleged a "350 foot gash" in the pool's liner, describing the damage as "purposefully and criminally done." He asserted that significant efforts were made to inflict the damage, possibly "in the dark of night."
The Associated Press confirmed that one man was arrested for touching the peeling paint while federal workers addressed an algae bloom. The pool's liner was part of a project to repair the century-old structure, incorporating a new bottom layer in a shade Trump has named "American flag blue."
Trump indicated that some water would be drained from the pool either immediately before or after the Fourth of July holiday to facilitate permanent repairs. The extent, scope, and cost of these permanent repairs were not detailed in his statement.
National Guard members and U.S. Park Police have been present around the pool's deck following Trump's assertion that vandals were responsible for damage to the liner.
Trump had initiated the original improvements, stating they were intended to clean, beautify, and strengthen the landmark, which he described as dilapidated and dirty due to neglect by previous administrations. The pool has historically contended with algae, and Trump had expressed confidence that the new "American flag blue" coating, which he personally selected, would transform the pool into a gleaming feature on the National Mall.
However, within weeks of the rehabilitation's completion, coinciding with Independence Day, the pool exhibited a pronounced green algae bloom that obscured the coating. On Friday, a section of the liner, approximately 4 square feet, was observed partially floating in the water. By Monday, the Associated Press saw additional pieces of the liner in the pool.
Park Police and the Interior Department had not immediately responded to requests for comment regarding Trump's assertions about the arrests and the extent of the damage.