THE HALFAX HEIMDALL AUGUR

Reflecting Pool beset by algae bloom after renovation | AP News An algae bloom has turned the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool green days after the completion of President Donald Trump’s renovation project that aimed for the shade “American flag blue.” (AP Video: Nathan Ellgren) Rick and Ariana Pettit of Las Vegas, walk past the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool as it is cleaned of algae by Park Service employees and contractors, Tuesday, June 16, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin) The reflecting pool is cleaned of algae, utilizing “ozone nano bubbles,” by National Park Service employees and contractors, Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool in Washington. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin) Water is pumped out of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool as it is cleaned of algae, Tuesday, June 16, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin) Members of the National Park Service and contractors place a tube into the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, as the pool is cleaned of algae, Tuesday, June 16, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin) Members of the National Park Service clean algae from the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, Tuesday…

Trump tries to blame Reflecting Pool woes on vandalism, without offering substantiation By AP Saturday, Jun 20, 2026 4:35 PM A peeling section of blue coating is seen in the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, Saturday, June 20, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein) × A peeling section of blue coating is seen in the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, Saturday, June 20, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein) WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump on Saturday announced that federal authorities had made “multiple arrests” of people he said were vandalizing the Reflecting Pool as he struggled to explain why the $14-million-plus rehabilitation project he launched for the nation's 250th anniversary seemingly backfired. Trump said his predecessors had let the pool turn an algae-stained green and that he'd line it with “American flag blue” so it better reflected the Washington Monument. But after the new pool was unveiled, its blue tinge quickly became a familiar green. Workers treated it with chemicals to kill the algae, but then the painted blue lining on the bottom began to peel. On Friday night, Trump posted about the pool. “We’ve had some real problems with Vanda…

Trump tries to blame Reflecting Pool woes on vandalism, without offering substantiation By AP Saturday, Jun 20, 2026 4:35 PM A peeling section of blue coating is seen in the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, Saturday, June 20, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein) × A peeling section of blue coating is seen in the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, Saturday, June 20, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein) WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump on Saturday announced that federal authorities had made “multiple arrests” of people he said were vandalizing the Reflecting Pool as he struggled to explain why the $14-million-plus rehabilitation project he launched for the nation's 250th anniversary seemingly backfired. Trump said his predecessors had let the pool turn an algae-stained green and that he'd line it with “American flag blue” so it better reflected the Washington Monument. But after the new pool was unveiled, its blue tinge quickly became a familiar green. Workers treated it with chemicals to kill the algae, but then the painted blue lining on the bottom began to peel. On Friday night, Trump posted about the pool. “We’ve had some real problems with Vanda…

Fact-checking Trump on Reflecting Pool renovations - PolitiFact Our only agenda is to publish the truth so you can be an informed participant in democracy.We need your help. More Info The Reflecting Pool on the National Mall undergoes a renovation on May 27, 2027. (Louis Jacobson / PolitiFact) WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump has long leaned into his background as a real estate developer. Almost a year and a half into his second term, he has been focused increasingly on efforts that will leave a lasting physical imprint on the nation’s capital. He’s torn down the White House’s East Wing in an effort to build aballroom, paved over theWhite House Rose Garden, initiated plans for a250-foot triumphal arch, renamed theJohn F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Artsin his honor (and later closed it for renovations), and asked for designs to renovatepublic golf courseswithin the city. In recent weeks, Trump has also ordered a snap renovation of the National Mall’s Reflecting Pool, which spans the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial. The Reflecting Pool renovation has garnered the most attention for Trump’s intention to paint the bottom "American Flag Blue." "I love cons…

Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool paint peeling off: See images NATION Donald Trump Add Topic Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool paint peeling off: See images Michelle Del Rey James Powel USA TODAY June 18, 2026, 6:57 p.m. ET Hear this story Portions of the sealant that was recently applied at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool as part of a series of renovations to the landmark appears to have begun peeling off the pool basin on June 18. Images published by Getty Images show a tear in the sealant and portions of the "American Flag Blue" paint floating to the surface. The images show the latest in a series of problems that have arisen in the wake of the repainting of the reflecting pool as a part of renovations commissioned by President Donald Trump . A June 16 arial photo showed an algae-ridden pool , a condition USA TODAY previously reported could last for months. On June 17, workers were seen pouring hydrogen peroxide into the pool to reduce the algae, though parts of the pool remained green that day and in the June 18 photos. USA TODAY has reached out to the National Park Service for comment on the apparent tear. See the tear of Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool sealant What are …

Trump claims Reflecting Pool was vandalized and says law ... - CNN National Park Service employees and contractors use vacuums to remove green algae from the bottom of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool in Washington, DC, on June 18, 2026. Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images Donald Trump See all topics Facebook Tweet Email Link Threads Link Copied! Follow Summary President Donald Trump claimed Friday the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool was vandalized and said law enforcement is investigating. The claim comes after blue material began peeling off the pool's bottom following Trump's nearly $15 million renovation. Trump also linked the alleged vandalism to the numbers "8647" etched into grass on the National Mall. AI-generated summary was reviewed by a CNN editor. President Donald Trump on Friday claimed the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool was intentionally vandalized and said law enforcement is actively investigating, as the administration has scrambled to fix the pool’s recent deterioration just days after Trump’s nearly $15 million renovation. “We’ve had some real problems with Vandalism at the beautiful Reflecting Pool,” Trump said in a late night post on Truth Social without provi…

Algae turns Reflecting Pool green after Trump's renovation - NBC Chicago The Trump Administration The latest news on Donald Trump's presidency National Mall Trump wanted the Reflecting Pool ‘American flag blue.' Algae is turning it green. Trump had been celebrating the completed paint job just days before D.C. residents noticed that it had turned green. By Megan Lebowitz and Monica Alba l NBC News • Published 1 hour ago • Updated 1 hour ago BOOKMARKER NBC Universal, Inc. The Reflecting Pool appeared green just days after President Donald Trump’s $14 million renovation was unveiled. The Trump administration has spent millions renovating the Reflecting Pool on the National Mall to make it “American flag blue” in time for the nation’s 250th anniversary celebrations. But even faster than it was refurbished, the water has turned to a dark green — thanks to algae growth. Stream NBC 5 for free, 24/7, wherever you are. WATCH HERE The new hue comes despite significant cost and controversy, and is something of a stumble after boasts by President Donald Trump about how he was able to make the famous landmark look so much better than his predecessors did. Last month, he drove over the Reflect…

"Trump said the newly restored Reflecting Pool would last "50 to 100 years" before needing major work. Less than a week later, the sealant was peeling, algae turned the water green, and federal crews were called in for emergency cleanup on a project that cost roughly $15 million." - @allenanalysis

Trump said the restored Reflecting Pool would last "50–100 years" before major work was needed. Days later, reports showed peeling sealant, green algae-filled water, and emergency cleanup crews on site. The renovation reportedly cost about $15 million.

Trump's $14.2m Reflecting Pool fiasco deepens as 'American flag blue ... BySTEPHEN M. LEPORE, US SENIOR REPORTER Published:01:05 EDT, 20 June 2026|Updated:07:38 EDT, 20 June 2026 1.7k Viewcomments Donald Trump's controversial renovation of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool has been dealt another blow as its 'American flag blue' has already begun to peel away from the bottom. The historic pool was drained and refinished in a no-bid contract this year as part of ​the president's sweeping plans to beautifyWashington DC. The bottom of the monument was repainted in a dark blue as part of the $14.2 million renovations which Trump announced had been completed on June 6. However, just a few weeks later images show the paint is already chipped and peeling. Trump took to Truth Social on Friday to blame liberal vandals for the damage. 'Just like three days ago, they destroyed the grass outside of the Pool, they’ve also done everything possible to hurt the inside surface that was just installed,' he wrote. Trump said that those who oppose him are trying to 'destroy and demean our beautiful work.' It comes afterworkers were forced topour hydrogen peroxide into the poolto combat a…

Trump says several arrested for Reflecting Pool alleged vandalism The United States Park Police have arrested multiple people for allegedly vandalizing the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool , President Trump said Saturday, days after algae turned the water a fluorescent green hue and rips appeared in an "American Flag Blue" surface handpicked by the president. "The United States Park Police have arrested multiple individuals for vandalizing our Nations magnificent Reflecting Poll (sic)," Mr. Trump said in a Truth Social post Saturday. "Who would do such a thing? These are very serious crimes having to do with the destruction of National Monuments. Years in jail! Work will begin immediately on its repair." The National Park Service did not immediately respond to CBS News' request for comment. David Hearn, a 67-year-old Bethesda, Maryland, man who stopped by the pool while on a 64-mile bike ride, said authorities arrested him and held him for five hours on Friday after he reached down into the pool. The newly refurbished Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool is contaminated by algae, as seen from the Washington Monument on June 17. Manuel Balce Ceneta/AP Photo Hearn, a former Olympic cano…

Trump tries to blame Reflecting Pool woes on vandalism, without offering substantiation By AP Saturday, Jun 20, 2026 4:35 PM A peeling section of blue coating is seen in the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, Saturday, June 20, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein) × A peeling section of blue coating is seen in the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, Saturday, June 20, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein) WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump on Saturday announced that federal authorities had made “multiple arrests” of people he said were vandalizing the Reflecting Pool as he struggled to explain why the $14-million-plus rehabilitation project he launched for the nation's 250th anniversary seemingly backfired. Trump said his predecessors had let the pool turn an algae-stained green and that he'd line it with “American flag blue” so it better reflected the Washington Monument. But after the new pool was unveiled, its blue tinge quickly became a familiar green. Workers treated it with chemicals to kill the algae, but then the painted blue lining on the bottom began to peel. On Friday night, Trump posted about the pool. “We’ve had some real problems with Vanda…

Trump tries to blame Reflecting Pool woes on vandalism, without offering substantiation By AP Saturday, Jun 20, 2026 4:35 PM A peeling section of blue coating is seen in the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, Saturday, June 20, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein) × A peeling section of blue coating is seen in the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, Saturday, June 20, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein) WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump on Saturday announced that federal authorities had made “multiple arrests” of people he said were vandalizing the Reflecting Pool as he struggled to explain why the $14-million-plus rehabilitation project he launched for the nation's 250th anniversary seemingly backfired. Trump said his predecessors had let the pool turn an algae-stained green and that he'd line it with “American flag blue” so it better reflected the Washington Monument. But after the new pool was unveiled, its blue tinge quickly became a familiar green. Workers treated it with chemicals to kill the algae, but then the painted blue lining on the bottom began to peel. On Friday night, Trump posted about the pool. “We’ve had some real problems with Vanda…

Trump tries to blame Reflecting Pool woes on vandalism - ABC News President Donald Trump claims the problems with the Reflecting Pool in Washington are due to vandalism WASHINGTON --The paint is peeling from Washington's Reflecting Pool after the renovation ordered by President Donald Trump, and he is now alleging that someone damaged it intentionally. “We’ve had some real problems with Vandalism at the beautiful Reflecting Pool," he posted on his social media site Friday night. "Just like three days ago, they destroyed the grass outside of the Pool, they’ve also done everything possible to hurt the inside surface that was just installed.” He offered no details to substantiate his claim. Agencies responsible for law enforcement and upkeep on the National Mall — the U.S. Park Police, National Park Service and Interior Department — did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The Washington Post reported that Park Police officers arrested someone on Friday who they said was peeling paint from the pool, an act that does not explain the clouds of algae in green water and swaths of loose blue paint detached from the bottom. Trump insisted something nefarious was going on. …

Paint Is Already Peeling Off In Washington Reflecting Pool Like us on Facebook Follow us on Twitter By Ed Scarce — June 19, 2026 According to ABC News , the cost of Trump's renovations has now ballooned to more than $16 million, "exceeding the original estimated cost of the no-bid contract by more than $4 million, according to federal contract data." That total includes $1.74 million to Green Water Solutions, which installed an "nano bubble" system to kill algae. That did not work, and they turned to dumping hydrogen peroxide into the pool. That seems to have peeled the paint and the rubberized compound off the pool floor. This never-ending boondoggle, which was completely unnecessary before Trump got involved, is not over, and all the work done so far was likely wasted and will have to be redone. Source: Reuters WASHINGTON, June 18 (Reuters) - The ​paint on Washington's newly renovated Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool on Thursday was ‌peeling away from the bottom and into the algae-tinted water, less than two weeks after President Donald Trump announced the job's completion. The historic pool was drained and refinished in a $14.7 million no-bid contract this year as part of ​Trum…

Trump tries to blame Reflecting Pool woes on vandalism, without offering substantiation By AP Saturday, Jun 20, 2026 4:35 PM A peeling section of blue coating is seen in the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, Saturday, June 20, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein) × A peeling section of blue coating is seen in the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, Saturday, June 20, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein) WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump on Saturday announced that federal authorities had made “multiple arrests” of people he said were vandalizing the Reflecting Pool as he struggled to explain why the $14-million-plus rehabilitation project he launched for the nation's 250th anniversary seemingly backfired. Trump said his predecessors had let the pool turn an algae-stained green and that he'd line it with “American flag blue” so it better reflected the Washington Monument. But after the new pool was unveiled, its blue tinge quickly became a familiar green. Workers treated it with chemicals to kill the algae, but then the painted blue lining on the bottom began to peel. On Friday night, Trump posted about the pool. “We’ve had some real problems with Vanda…

Members of the National Park Service clean the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool of algae, Tuesday, June 16, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin) By The Associated Press PUBLISHED: June 16, 2026 at 7:32 PM EDT | UPDATED: June 16, 2026 at 7:38 PM EDT Getting your Trinity Audio player ready... By KATIE VOGEL and JACQUELYN MARTIN WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump’s remodeled Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool with its “American flag blue” bottom has turned chartreuse from an algal bloom that park service workers struggled to address Tuesday just days after its more than $14 million renovation. The Washington Monument is once again visible in the refilled pool, but Trump’s vision of an azure expanse between the D.C. landmarks has been complicated by the harsh realities of chemistry and biology known to any backyard pool owner. The work has been confounded by the unique challenges posed by the scale of the structure, bigger than 10 Olympic-sized pools — which Trump has called a lake — and the source of its water: the often-fetid Tidal Basin. Algae has plagued the site since it opened more than 100 years ago, but Trump set his sights on addressing it as part of his aggres…

At least 5 people arrested in alleged tampering with Reflecting Pool ... Add NBC News to Google Trump says Reflecting Pool will likely need to be drained 02:11 Get more news Live on Share Add NBC News to Google June 22, 2026, 11:05 AM EDT / Updated June 22, 2026, 6:15 PM EDT By Gabe Gutierrez , Helen Graham , David K. Li and Lauren Zola At least five people have been arrested in connection with the alleged vandalism of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool , an administration official said Monday, as President Donald Trump threatened long prison terms for offenders. Limited time: Save 25% on NBC News subscription Get exclusive reporting, live Q&As and ad-free reading. The five arrests and citations to five additional individuals come in the wake of Trump saying Saturday, with no evidence so far, that vandals at the Reflecting Pool cut a 250-foot-long “gash into the beautiful facade of what took so much work, competence, and money to build and complete.” Among those arrested was former U.S. Olympic canoeist David “Davey” Hearn, who previously told NBC News he was detained for five hours Friday after touching a piece of detached coating at the Reflecting Pool. Over the weekend, follo…

Trump tries to blame Reflecting Pool woes on vandalism, without offering substantiation By AP Saturday, Jun 20, 2026 4:35 PM A peeling section of blue coating is seen in the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, Saturday, June 20, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein) × A peeling section of blue coating is seen in the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, Saturday, June 20, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein) WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump on Saturday announced that federal authorities had made “multiple arrests” of people he said were vandalizing the Reflecting Pool as he struggled to explain why the $14-million-plus rehabilitation project he launched for the nation's 250th anniversary seemingly backfired. Trump said his predecessors had let the pool turn an algae-stained green and that he'd line it with “American flag blue” so it better reflected the Washington Monument. But after the new pool was unveiled, its blue tinge quickly became a familiar green. Workers treated it with chemicals to kill the algae, but then the painted blue lining on the bottom began to peel. On Friday night, Trump posted about the pool. “We’ve had some real problems with Vanda…

Trump's $14M Reflecting Pool Paint Job Is Now Peeling Off ... - HuffPost LOADING ERROR LOADING President Donald Trump positioned himself as a swimming pool expert as he touted the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool renovations he ordered this year, having put in “ more than 100 ” over his career. But after spending $14 million in taxpayer funds, the Reflecting Pool now looks arguably worse than it did before. Advertisement Aside from the bright green hue of the water — the product of what is reportedly one of the largest algae blooms in recent years — the “industrial-grade swimming pool topping” that Trump chose is already peeling off in sheets. Visitors took notice of the floating material on Thursday. HuffPost even observed some taking samples of the coating with them as a souvenir of Trump’s Washington. A man who gave his name as Sean told HuffPost that he had experience working on swimming pool coatings in the past, and did not seem surprised to see the peeling. Advertisement View this post on Instagram “This is an epoxy,” he said of the coating. “This is something you would do on a concrete — on a shot concrete sort of pool where you have leaking. And then you spray this out. B…

Trump administration has a new plan to keep Reflecting Pool clean Trump administration has a new plan to keep Reflecting Pool clean Trump administration has a new plan to keep Reflecting Pool clean Updated: 12:14 PM EDT Jul 3, 2026 Editorial Standards ⓘ By Sunlen Serfaty Advertisement Trump administration has a new plan to keep Reflecting Pool clean Updated: 12:14 PM EDT Jul 3, 2026 Editorial Standards ⓘ By Sunlen Serfaty A new, intensive plan to keep the Reflecting Pool on the National Mall clean is emerging after the Trump administration spent months trying to turn the iconic memorial sparkling blue at the behest of President Donald Trump.The Department of Interior is soliciting bids to hire a contractor for the pool’s long-term maintenance after it is restored and repaired for the second time this year, according to public documents reviewed by CNN.Above video | Installation details may explain Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool problemsThe Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool has been plagued by growing algae, green-hued water, a chipping bottom and allegations of vandalism. The Trump administration hopes those problems will be remedied with the next round of renovations after the J…

Chris Hayes rips Trump's Reflecting Pool failure as water turns 'Kermit ... MS NOW’sChris Hayesroasted PresidentDonald Trump’s Lincoln MemorialReflecting Pool renovationas a failure and said Americans are being left with “a big, ugly mess” after the president’s “American Flag Blue” water turned green this week thanks to a pervasive algae problem. On Tuesday, days after the more than $14 million renovation was said to be complete, workers could be seen dumping hydrogen peroxide into the 2,028-foot pool to fight off an algae bloom. Hayes said the color looked “more Kermit the Frog green” or like a “water hazard at an abandoned mini golf course,” comparing it to New York City’s Gowanus Canal, one of the most polluted bodies of water in the United States. “In a year full of metaphors that are way too on the nose, this one really has become a perfect story of the Trump administration,” the “All In” host said of the president’s attempt to remodel the century-old pool he previously called “filthy” and “disgusting.” According to Hayes, “like so many of Trump’s deeply unpresidential obsessions,” his preoccupation with the Reflecting Pool “started with grievances about his predecessors.…

Trump tries to blame Reflecting Pool woes on vandalism, without offering substantiation By AP Saturday, Jun 20, 2026 4:35 PM A peeling section of blue coating is seen in the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, Saturday, June 20, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein) × A peeling section of blue coating is seen in the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, Saturday, June 20, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein) WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump on Saturday announced that federal authorities had made “multiple arrests” of people he said were vandalizing the Reflecting Pool as he struggled to explain why the $14-million-plus rehabilitation project he launched for the nation's 250th anniversary seemingly backfired. Trump said his predecessors had let the pool turn an algae-stained green and that he'd line it with “American flag blue” so it better reflected the Washington Monument. But after the new pool was unveiled, its blue tinge quickly became a familiar green. Workers treated it with chemicals to kill the algae, but then the painted blue lining on the bottom began to peel. On Friday night, Trump posted about the pool. “We’ve had some real problems with Vanda…

Trump's 'American flag blue' repaint of the Reflecting Pool faces a ... Workers apply a blue protective coating as part of a renovation project to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, Friday, May 8, 2026, on the National Mall in Washington. (AP Photo/Rahmat Gul) President Donald Trump talks as he visits the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool to see the new blue protective coating being applied as part of a renovation project, Thursday, May 7, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein) The motorcade with President Donald Trump drives in the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool as he arrives to to see the new blue protective coating being applied as part of a renovation project, Thursday, May 7, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein) President Donald Trump talks as he visits the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool to see the new blue protective coating being applied as part of a renovation project, Thursday, May 7, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein) President Donald Trump speaks as he visits the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool to see the new blue protective coating being applied as part of a renovation project, Thursday, May 7, 2026, in Washington. (AP …

Trump tries to blame Reflecting Pool woes on vandalism, without offering ... The Associated Press June 20, 2026, 6:35 PM WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump on Saturday announced that federal authorities had made “multiple arrests” of people he said were vandalizing the Reflecting Pool as he struggled to explain why the$14-million-plusrehabilitation project he launched for the nation’s 250th anniversary seemingly backfired. Trump said his predecessors had let the pool turn an algae-stained green and that he’d line it with “American flag blue” so it better reflected the Washington Monument. But after the new pool was unveiled, its blue tinge quickly became a familiar green. Workers treated it with chemicals to kill the algae, but then the painted blue lining on the bottom began to peel. On Friday night, Trump posted about the pool. “We’ve had some real problems with Vandalism at the beautiful Reflecting Pool,” he posted on his social media site Friday night. “Just like three days ago, they destroyed the grass outside of the Pool, they’ve also done everything possible to hurt the inside surface that was just installed.” He offered no details to substantiate his claim. Ag…

Trump says repairs to begin 'immediately' for Washington pool renovation Costly Reflecting Pool revamp under fire amid algae bloom and disputed vandalism claims US President Donald Trump said on Sunday work would begin "immediately" on fixing his beleaguered renovation project of the Reflecting Pool in Washington, which as been blighted with algae and peeling paint. Trump has championed a makeover for the 610-meter-long pool, bringing in contractors to drain it and paint it "American flag blue." But not long after the job was complete, the paint began to visibly peel, and the gleaming waters promptly refilled with green pond scum. "Work will begin immediately on fixing the seriously vandalized Reflecting Pool," Trump wrote Sunday on his Truth Social platform. "I just inspected it, and could only say to myself, and those gathered around me, WOW, who would do such a thing?" he continued. As workers scrambled to pump out murky water and dumped hydrogen peroxide into the pool, Trump took no responsibility for what many observers chalked up to shoddy workmanship. "We met with contractors today, will probably be forced to release and drain much of the water in order to do the nec…

[2/4] Pool of the Lincoln Memorial in the United States has been renovated at a cost of more than $1. A few days after the completion of the $4 million renovation project, an algae outbreak occurred and the water turned green. US President Trump posted successive posts on the 19th and

Trump blames vandals for Reflecting Pool issues after renovation POLITICS Donald Trump Add Topic President Trump blames vandals amid Reflecting Pool algae bloom Dinah Voyles Pulver USA TODAY Updated June 19, 2026, 11:48 p.m. ET Hear this story President Donald Trump defended his administration's beautification record in Washington, DC, despite the algae bloom in the recently overhauled reflecting pool at the Lincoln Memorial. In a Truth Social post on June 19, the president blamed vandals for the troubles that have cropped up after the $16 million renovation of the pool . "We've cleaned, renovated, and beautified over 45 Monuments and Memorials, 28 Statues and 22 Fountains in Washington, D.C. Things are looking really good in our Nation's Capital," the Truth Social post stated. "However, we've had some real problems with Vandalism at the beautiful Reflecting Pool, which sits between The Washington Monument and The Lincoln Memorial." "Just like three days ago, they destroyed the grass outside of the Pool, they've also done everything possible to hurt the inside surface that was just installed," Trump added. "No different than the chemicals that were used on the National Mall, they …

A new plan to keep the Reflecting Pool clean - CNN People view the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool from behind a fence on June 27, 2026 in Washington, DC. Tierney L. Cross/Getty Images Donald Trump See all topics Facebook Tweet Email Link Threads Link Copied! Follow A new, intensive plan to keep the Reflecting Pool on the National Mall clean is emerging after the Trump administration spent months trying to turn the iconic memorial sparkling blue at the behest of President Donald Trump. The Department of Interior is soliciting bids to hire a contractor for the pool’s long-term maintenance after it is restored and repaired for the second time this year, according to public documents reviewed by CNN. The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool has been plagued by growing algae, green-hued water, a chipping bottom and allegations of vandalism . The Trump administration hopes those problems will be remedied with the next round of renovations after the July Fourth holiday. The National Park Service plans to begin draining the Reflecting Pool for repairs, including any damage to the lining, after Independence Day celebrations this weekend. The search for a new contractor to undertake daily mai…

Reflecting Pool Appears Green After Trump Renovation: Photos - Forbes Breaking Business Breaking News Reflecting Pool Appears Green After Trump Renovation: Photos By Zachary Folk , Forbes Staff. I cover breaking news. Follow Author Jun 15, 2026, 08:01pm EDT Topline The Trump administration completed its $14.2 million renovations to the National Mall’s Reflecting Pool last week, intending to color the water feature “American Flag Blue,” but days later the pool’s notorious algae returned to color the reservoir bright green. The Department of the Interior said the algae bloom turning the pool green was being “vacuumed up as we speak.” AFP via Getty Images Key Facts Photos and videos appeared to show National Park Service workers in waders cleaning up the algae with hand tools on Sunday, although the pool still appeared green in photos the next day. “The National Park Service is actually maintaining the beautifully completed Reflecting Pool,” Katie Martin, a spokesperson for the Department of the Interior, told Forbes in a statement, blaming past presidential administrations for failing to adequately clean up the algae bloom. Martin said the Trump administration installed “nanobubbler…

Trump blames vandals for Reflecting Pool problems and says it may ... Despite efforts to clean the algae, the bloom and peeling paint continues to draw the attention of onlookers visiting the Reflecting Pool and surrounding monuments. Anna Rose Layden / Getty Images Share Add NBC News to Google June 20, 2026, 11:04 PM EDT By Casey Wooten and Marco Gacina WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump on Saturday said that multiple people had been arrested in connection with alleged vandalism of the Reflecting Pool on the National Mall, including an Olympic canoeist, as the administration’s $14 million project to renovate the site has faced multiple setbacks. Subscribe to read this story ad-free Get unlimited access to ad-free articles and exclusive content. In a pair of posts Saturday on Truth Social, Trump, without evidence, blamed vandals for the damage to the pool and said the alleged crimes could warrant “years in jail.” “Who would do such a thing? These are very serious crimes having to do with the destruction of National Monuments,” Trump said in one post. The 2,030-foot pool, which sits at the foot of the Lincoln Memorial, has been beset by an algae bloom as workers refilled it after …

Trump tries to blame Reflecting Pool woes on vandalism, without offering substantiation By AP Saturday, Jun 20, 2026 4:35 PM A peeling section of blue coating is seen in the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, Saturday, June 20, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein) × A peeling section of blue coating is seen in the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, Saturday, June 20, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein) WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump on Saturday announced that federal authorities had made “multiple arrests” of people he said were vandalizing the Reflecting Pool as he struggled to explain why the $14-million-plus rehabilitation project he launched for the nation's 250th anniversary seemingly backfired. Trump said his predecessors had let the pool turn an algae-stained green and that he'd line it with “American flag blue” so it better reflected the Washington Monument. But after the new pool was unveiled, its blue tinge quickly became a familiar green. Workers treated it with chemicals to kill the algae, but then the painted blue lining on the bottom began to peel. On Friday night, Trump posted about the pool. “We’ve had some real problems with Vanda…

Trump administration won't seek new bids to repair the Reflecting Pool ... Workers install fireworks along the edge of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool ahead of the America 250 July 4th celebration on the National Mall, Thursday, July 2, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Nathan Howard) A man on a bike passes security fencing along the edge of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool ahead of America 250 July 4th celebration on the National Mall, Thursday, July 2, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Nathan Howard) Interior Secretary Doug Burgum speaks at Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Friday, July 3, 2026, near Keystone, S.D. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon) A worker clears debris from the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, Wednesday, July 1, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Tom Brenner) American David Hearn, of Bethesda, Md., makes his way through the C1 slalom course, Sept. 17, 2000, at Whitewater Stadium in Penrith, Australia. (AP Photo/Koji Sasahara, File) NEW YORK (AP) — The Trump administration will not seek new bids to repair the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, Interior SecretaryDoug Burgumsaid Sunday as he faced new questions about the troubled project and the taxpayer money involved…

Trump tries to blame Reflecting Pool woes on vandalism, without offering substantiation By AP Saturday, Jun 20, 2026 4:35 PM A peeling section of blue coating is seen in the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, Saturday, June 20, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein) × A peeling section of blue coating is seen in the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, Saturday, June 20, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein) WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump on Saturday announced that federal authorities had made “multiple arrests” of people he said were vandalizing the Reflecting Pool as he struggled to explain why the $14-million-plus rehabilitation project he launched for the nation's 250th anniversary seemingly backfired. Trump said his predecessors had let the pool turn an algae-stained green and that he'd line it with “American flag blue” so it better reflected the Washington Monument. But after the new pool was unveiled, its blue tinge quickly became a familiar green. Workers treated it with chemicals to kill the algae, but then the painted blue lining on the bottom began to peel. On Friday night, Trump posted about the pool. “We’ve had some real problems with Vanda…

Members of the National Park Service clean the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool of algae, Tuesday, June 16, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin) By The Associated Press PUBLISHED: June 16, 2026 at 7:32 PM EDT | UPDATED: June 16, 2026 at 7:38 PM EDT Getting your Trinity Audio player ready... By KATIE VOGEL and JACQUELYN MARTIN WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump’s remodeled Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool with its “American flag blue” bottom has turned chartreuse from an algal bloom that park service workers struggled to address Tuesday just days after its more than $14 million renovation. The Washington Monument is once again visible in the refilled pool, but Trump’s vision of an azure expanse between the D.C. landmarks has been complicated by the harsh realities of chemistry and biology known to any backyard pool owner. The work has been confounded by the unique challenges posed by the scale of the structure, bigger than 10 Olympic-sized pools — which Trump has called a lake — and the source of its water: the often-fetid Tidal Basin. Algae has plagued the site since it opened more than 100 years ago, but Trump set his sights on addressing it as part of his aggres…

Trump says beleaguered reflecting pool will ‘probably’ be drained for repairs <p>Algae blooms and peeling paint mar $14.2m renovation as president blames problems on ‘disgraceful Vandalism’</p><p>The troublesome Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool in Washington is “probably” going to be drained for repairs, Donald Trump has said, after algae blooms and peeling paint marred the controversial recent renovation efforts for America’s <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/series/america-at-250">250th anniversary celebrations</a> next month.</p><p>In a <a href="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/posts/116785296448420208">Truth Social post</a> late on Saturday, Trump said that after meeting with pool contractors, they would “probably be forced to release and drain much of the water in order to do the necessary repairs, but will have them done as quickly as possible”.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jun/21/trump-lincoln-memorial-reflecting-pool">Continue reading...</a>

Blue material peeling off bottom of Reflecting Pool, days after ... - CNN CNN observed a flap of blue material partially attached to the bottom in one area of the Reflecting Pool. 0:05 • Source: CNN CNN observed a flap of blue material partially attached to the bottom in one area of the Reflecting Pool. 0:05 Interior design Donald Trump See all topics Facebook Tweet Email Link Threads Link Copied! Follow Summary Blue material is peeling off the bottom of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool days after its refilling. The pool's renovation was ordered by President Trump and cost about $14 million, far exceeding initial estimates. The iconic pool has struggled with algae and leaks for decades despite multiple renovations. AI-generated summary was reviewed by a CNN editor. Some blue material at the bottom of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool is peeling off, days after the pool was painted blue and refilled as part of a multi-million dollar renovation ordered by President Donald Trump. On Thursday at the National Mall, CNN observed a flap of blue material that was partially attached to the bottom in one area of the pool and floating toward the top. It is unclear if the material is p…

Trump tries to blame Reflecting Pool woes on vandalism | AP News A peeling section of blue coating is seen in the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, Saturday, June 20, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein) Water from a vacuum line being used by National Park Service employees to clean the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool pours into a nearby drain, Saturday, June 20, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein) Oklahoma City Police Department officers, deputized to assist with local law enforcement for events around the 250th anniversary of the U.S., patrol near the area where sections of blue coating have peeled up in the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, Saturday, June 20, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein) A peeling section of blue coating is seen in the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, Saturday, June 20, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein) Visitors watch as National Park Service employees use vacuums to clean the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, Saturday, June 20, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein) WASHINGTON (AP) — The paint is peeling from Washington’s Reflecting Pool after the renovation ordered by President …

Obama, Biden didn't pay 'hundreds of millions' to fix reflecting pool ... Tourists ride bicycles near the Lincoln Memorial, as a blue protective coating as part of a renovation project to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, is seen in the background, Friday, May 22, 2026, in Washington. The Washington Monument stands in he background. (AP Photo/Rahmat Gul) In April, President Donald Trump announced a project to revamp the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, hiring a contractor to coat its massive granite basin at a cost of what he said would be $1.5 million. He criticized his predecessors’ efforts to fix the site at aCabinet meeting on Wednesday, claiming they spent “hundreds of millions of dollars.” Former President Barack Obama presided over a multimillion-dollar renovation of the pool, but the final bill was nowhere near Trump’s estimate. And the Biden administration did not conduct any major work. As for Trump, federal spending records show that costs are significantly higher than he says. The reflecting pool, which is more than 2,000 feet long, was originally builtin the 1920s. It sits between the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument and is one of the most iconic s…

Trump: 'Vandalism' Is Reason for Reflecting Pool Debacle Trump Claims ‘Vandalism’ Caused Reflecting Pool Debacle, Accuses ABC Reporter of Trying To Make It Worse Michael Luciano Jun 19th, 2026, 10:34 pm Share X Facebook Copy Link President Donald Trump is now claiming that the problems with the newly renovated Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool were caused by unidentified vandals. The president has taken a personal interest in the renovations and frequently raised the topic during press gaggles. Since the job was completed, the pool has been plagued by algae blooms . This week, visitors to the pool began to notice paint peeling away from the bottom. The algae has given the pool a distinct green hue instead of the intended American flag blue. Some tourists have reportedly been ripping off pieces of the paint to take as souvenirs. Trump addressed the problems on Friday night in a post on Truth Social. He bragged about having “beautified over 45 Monuments and Memorials, 28 Statues, and 22 Fountains in Washington, D.C.” The president pivoted to the pool, whose problems he blamed on vandalism. For good measure, Trump accused ABC News Chief Washington Correspondent Jonathan Karl of “tryin…

Trump Says Reflecting Pool Repairs Will Begin 'Immediately' - Forbes Breaking Business Breaking News Trump Says Reflecting Pool Repairs Will Begin ‘Immediately’ By Zachary Folk , Forbes Staff. I cover breaking news. Follow Author Jun 21, 2026, 05:02pm EDT Topline President Donald Trump said work on fixing the renovations to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool would begin “immediately,” after previously suggesting it might need to be drained again to fix the damage he says was caused by vandals—just 16 days after the government refilled it following a project that made the bottom “American Flag Blue.” A National Park Service employee uses a vacuum to clean the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool near a missing section of blue coating on Friday in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein) Copyright 2026 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. Key Facts Trump said he inspected the damage to the Reflecting Pool, insisting it was “seriously vandalized” by “SICK, DERANGED PEOPLE” without providing further specifics. In a series of posts on Truth Social on Saturday night, Trump blamed damage to the blue material lining the Reflecting Pool on “vandals,” whom he claimed “put a 250 foot lon…

Some of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool liner appears to be ... The "American flag blue" coating appears to be peeling away in some sections. Cleaning up theLincoln Memorial Reflecting Poolhas been one of President Donald Trump's pet projects. In April, he said he would clean up the massive pool within a week and for about $1 million. About three months -- andmore than $15 millionlater -- the project looks to be in trouble. Just Wednesday night, Trump's Department of Interiordeclared in a social media statement that "advanced nanobubbler technology" had "very effectively killed the algae" that has plagued the Reflecting Pool for years. "The Reflecting Pool water is crystal clear," the statement declared, but then continued, "our National Park Service team is now vacuuming up the dead algae resting on the bottom of some parts of the Reflecting Pool -- just like the destroyed Iranian Navy resting on the bottom of the Persian Gulf." WhenABC News visitedthe Reflecting Pool Thursday afternoon, we found it filled with gunk and green algae-infused water. And a new problem has emerged; the "American flag blue" paint job appears to be falling apart -- some of it peeling away from …

Trump blames vandals for peeling paint and algae at Reflecting Pool POLITICS Donald Trump Add Topic 'Cut it very violently.' Trump says vandals damaged Reflecting Pool The damage came after Trump's $14.7 million overhaul of the iconic pool on the National Mall between the Lincoln and Washington memorials. Bart Jansen USA TODAY June 22, 2026 Updated June 23, 2026, 2:42 p.m. ET Hear this story WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump blamed damage to the Reflecting Pool — algae and peeling paint — on vandals and said five people have been arrested . "It’s vandalism," Trump told reporters in the Oval Office on June 22 . "We have a 290-, 300-foot slit right through it, probably a box-cutter or a knife of some kind." "They cut it very violently," he added, without providing evidence. Trump referred questions about the criminal investigation and the proof of intentional damage to the pool to the National Park Service, which manages the National Mall where the pool is located, and its parent organization, the Department of the Interior. Neither agency responded immediately to USA TODAY's request for comment. Members of a DC task force , a group of federal and local law enforcement officials, …

Trump claims multiple people arrested for vandalizing Reflecting Pool - CNN In an aerial view from the Washington Monument, crews remove algae from the bottom of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool after recent renovations following a directive from President Donald Trump to paint it blue ahead of the 250th anniversary of US independence, in Washington, DC, on June 19, 2026. Aaron Schwartz/Reuters Donald Trump Social media See all topics Facebook Tweet Email Link Threads Link Copied! Follow Summary President Trump said on social media that US Park Police arrested multiple people for vandalizing the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. The $14 million renovation project has been plagued by algae growth and blue material peeling from the pool's bottom. Democrats and Republicans have traded accusations over the troubled beautification effort, which was rushed to completion before July 4. AI-generated summary was reviewed by a CNN editor. Earlier this year, President Donald Trump described the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool as “absolutely filthy,” vowing to clean up the iconic landmark and make it “look gorgeous, beautiful” so it again reflects the federal monuments around it. The $14…

Blue material peeling off bottom of Reflecting Pool, days after costly ... Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Print Copy article link Save Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Print Copy article link Save (CNN) — Some blue material at the bottom of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool is peeling off, days after the pool was painted blue and refilled as part of a multi-million dollar renovation ordered by President Donald Trump. On Thursday at the National Mall, CNN observed a flap of blue material that was partially attached to the bottom in one area of the pool and floating toward the top. It is unclear if the material is paint or sealant, and it’s unclear what caused it to come up. The Department of the Interior did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Shown pictures and videos of the material, Eddie Wood, who owns Atlantic Industrial Coatings, the Virginia-based firm hired to renovate the pool, said the images do not provide enough information “to tell exactly what that is.” “There’s several things that we’ve got to address when we come back for maintenance, and anything like that will be addressed, if it’s a problem,” Wood said. …

Trump tries to blame Reflecting Pool woes on vandalism - CNBC The paint is peeling from Washington's Reflecting Pool after the renovation ordered by President Donald Trump, and he now alleges that someone intentionally damaged it. "We've had some real problems with Vandalism at the beautiful Reflecting Pool," hepostedon his social media site Friday night. "Just like three days ago, they destroyed the grass outside of the Pool, they've also done everything possible to hurt the inside surface that was just installed." He offered no details to substantiate his claim. Agencies responsible for law enforcement and upkeep of the National Mall — the U.S. Park Police, the National Park Service and the Interior Department — did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The Washington Post reported that Park Police officers arrested someone on Friday, who they said was peeling paint from the pool, an act that does not account for the clouds of algae in the green water and swaths of loose blue paint detached from the bottom. Trump insisted something nefarious was going on. "No different than the chemicals that were used on the National Mall, they used something similar in the Refle…

Trump says multiple people arrested over alleged vandalism at Lincoln ... Algae has been forming in the pool following a nearly $14M renovation. President Donald Trump said Saturday afternoon that the U.S. Park Police had arrested multiple people he alleged were vandalizing the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, which has beenplaguedwith algae and peeling paint in the days since the Trump administration completed a costly renovation. Visitors have been flocking to the pool over the weekend and some have taken to social media with photos and videos showing the algae and peeling paint. Trump did not get into specifics in his post about the alleged vandalism that prompted the arrests. "These are very serious crimes having to do with the destruction of National Monuments. Years in jail," Trump wrote on social media. The Interior Department recently completed a repainting job on the the Reflecting Pool thatcostmore than $14.65 million, which was $4 million more than the estimated cost. Trump pledged Saturday that work would begin "immediately" to repair the peeling lining. The president's comments came as he made unsubstantiated accusations overnight that the painted surface of t…

Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool History: Bacon, McMillan A presidential motorcade rolled across the bottom of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool on the evening of May 7th, 2026. There was no water in it. The granite floor had just been resurfaced in what President Donald Trump calls “American flag blue,” and he wanted to see it before sundown. You almost certainly saw the photo. SUVs in convoy, Lincoln watching from his chair at the west end, the Washington Monument to the east, and fresh blue paint where 6.75 million gallons of water are supposed to be. Trump told reporters the project cost “nearly $2 million” and that the result would be “much more beautiful than when they did it in 1922.” Standing in the empty basin he added, “Our country is about beauty, cleanliness, safety, great people. Not a filthy capital.” Here is the strange thing about all of this. The architect Henry Bacon designed the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool to be a mirror, not a surface you were supposed to look at. The pool opened in 1923 with a plain asphalt and tile bottom, and when the National Park Service rebuilt it in 2012 the new floor was tinted a neutral gray to make the water more reflective, a…

Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool Is Looking 'Quite Green' And Filled ... LOADING ERROR LOADING Donald Trump recently gushed about his $14 million makeover of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, claiming that it would be filled with “ CLEAN, BEAUTIFUL WATER ” that will “ SPARKLE magnificently ” upon completion. But the president’s talk doesn’t appear to be submerged in reality just yet as several snaps and a video, captured and shared on X by photographer Andrew Leyden, show the pool was looking “quite green” on Sunday morning. Advertisement The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool is quite green this morning. For @Bloomberg photos. https://t.co/gvvHTLzpOP pic.twitter.com/V4kkjGxT0R — Andrew Leyden (@PenguinSix) June 14, 2026 In recent months, Trump has complained about the “garbage”-filled pool drawing “dirt, grime and decay” in an apparent effort to justify the renovations ― and to attack his predecessors over algae thriving in the water during their administrations. And while algae reportedly resurfaced in the wake of a $34 million, Obama-era renovation on the pool back in 2012, it seems the long issue of the plant-like organisms blooming in the pool continues to haunt Trump and h…

Trump admin frantically scrambling to clean up murky Reflecting Pool: report TheTrumpadministration is frantically looking for a way to clean up themurky greenReflecting Pool, according to areportby MeidasTouch News. According to an internal email obtained by MeidasTouch, the Trump administration has elevated the clean-up to a "regional and national priority" and is seeking volunteers to help save theReflecting Poolbefore July 4. Despite Trump's $14 million renovation project, the Reflecting Pool has been coated with amucky green algal bloomsince last week, and workers have been trying to clear it out. National Park Service employees were informed that officials are actively working on "critical pre-July 4th operational needs" like "scrubbing and pump-out operations," according to the email. The email also asks employees to work 12-hour shifts beginning this week and throughout the weekend, MeidasTouch reported. ALSO READ:Marine linked to 'six bullets' Hegseth death threat promoted to general Copyright © 2026 Raw Story Media, Inc. PO Box 21050, Washington, D.C. 20009 |Masthead|Privacy Policy|Manage Preferences|Debug LogsFor corrections contactcorrections@rawstory.com, for su…

I went to see the renovated Reflecting Pool. Here's what stood out POLITICS Donald Trump Add Topic I went to see the renovated Reflecting Pool. Here's what I noticed Michelle Del Rey USA TODAY June 8, 2026 Updated June 9, 2026, 9:14 a.m. ET Hear this story The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool continues to mirror the Washington Monument after over a month of renovations to redo the pool's basin. On Monday, June 8, I visited the memorial to observe the progress of the construction project that began in April. President Donald Trump commissioned a swimming pool contractor to carry out the work, according to a lawsuit filed against the U.S. Department of the Interior by The Cultural Landscape Foundation on May 11. The complaint took issue with the basin's color, which the organization said had been a signature feature of the pool since its opening in 1924. The Reflecting Pool basin was previously achromatic and gray. The prior color created the illusion of greater depth and a more profound reflection, according to the nonprofit, which cited a National Park Service Cultural Landscape Report published in August 1999. In an emailed statement to USA TODAY, the National Park Service said i…

Donald Trump said the newly restored Reflecting Pool would last "50 to 100 years" before needing major work. Less than a week later, the sealant has reportedly peeled, algae has turned the water green, and federal crews were called in for emergency cleanup on a project that cost roughly $15 million

Trump's Reflecting Pool renovation has an algae problem Photo by Christina Cauterucci Copy Link Share Share Comment Copy Link Share Share Comment Sign up for the Slatest to get the most insightful analysis, criticism, and advice out there, delivered to your inbox daily. Something dark and flat was swaying gently against the floor of the Reflecting Pool as I strolled past the monuments on Thursday morning. At first glance, it looked like a small raft of seaweed. But when I stuck my arm into the slime-green water and held the object to the light, it revealed itself as something far more evocative: a giant flake of Donald Trump’s precious sealant, which was supposed to turn the pool “American flag blue.” One week after the president’s paint job wrapped up and the pool was refilled, the material is already coming loose from the concrete bottom of the Reflecting Pool. Where it’s not peeling off around the edges, it’s covered in chartreuse algae. As the pool has gone from blue to green over the past few weeks, the sight has offered an inescapable metaphor for the Trump administration’s ineptitude, profligate spending, careless meddling with iconic federal properties, and general bad tas…

Red white and green? DC's Reflecting Pool may not be blue by July 4th NATION National Park Service Add Topic Red white and green? DC's Reflecting Pool may not be blue by July 4th Michelle Del Rey USA TODAY Updated June 15, 2026, 7:37 p.m. ET Hear this story The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool has become overrun with algae just days after the landmark underwent a multimillion-dollar renovation, leaving visitors wondering if it will be cleared in time for 4th of July celebrations marking America's 250th anniversary . Photos taken over the weekend show National Park Service employees working to clear algae from the pool, which had turned the water green. The pool's basin had been painted "American Flag Blue," a dark navy, ahead of Independence Day. The pool in Washington measures about 2,000 feet in length and 160 feet in width. The renovation began in April and was completed in June. According to The New York Times , the pool repairs cost $13.1 million. In a statement to USA TODAY on June 15, the Department of the Interior said, "Versus previous administrations, the National Park Service is actually maintaining the beautifully completed Reflecting Pool." "The nanobubbler technology…

Fact-check: Trump's statements on the Reflecting Pool renovation Fact-checking Trump on Reflecting Pool renovation timeline, cost, contractor relationship Fact-checking Trump on Reflecting Pool renovation timeline, cost, contractor relationship You have this reflecting lake pond is incredible, but it was terrible, the condition, you all know it. *** friend of mine came from Germany to see me and he said, Oh, we went over, it's so sad. What's sad? This is *** number of months ago. He said it's filthy dirty. It's the water is disgusting looking. It's not representative of the country, and I said, Well, I'm going to have to go take *** look because you know Secret Service doesn't let you just walk around too freely. And I went over there with Secret Service in tow, and I said, Isn't that *** shame? It's terrible. Updated: 1:46 PM EDT May 28, 2026 Editorial Standards ⓘ By Louis Jacobson and Amy Sherman, PolitiFact Advertisement Fact-checking Trump on Reflecting Pool renovation timeline, cost, contractor relationship Updated: 1:46 PM EDT May 28, 2026 Editorial Standards ⓘ By Louis Jacobson and Amy Sherman, PolitiFact President Donald Trump has long leaned into his background as a real …

Before-and-After Satellite Photos Show Trump's Reflecting Pool Changes ... President Donald Trump has made manychanges to Washington, DC, since returning for a second, non-consecutive term. One such change is visible from space. In April, Trump announced that he had chosen Atlantic Industrial Coatings — a contractor he initially said worked on his Virginia golf club before laterwalking backthat claim — to renovate the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool ahead ofAmerica's 250th anniversary, telling reporters its "filthy" water was "not representative of the country." The $14.2 million project, which Trump initially estimated would cost between $1.5 and $2 million, included sealing and painting the bottom of the 2,030-foot-long pool an "American flag blue" to better reflect the Washington Monument. In a satellite image of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool taken on March 10, 2026, before the renovation began, the water appeared green due to widespread algae growth. A satellite photo taken on June 7, a day after Trump said the project was completed, showed the pool's darker surface. Indeed, the reflection of the Washington Monument could once again be seen on the water in a photo…

Before-and-after photos: Trump’s $14.2m makeover delivers … a blue pool <p>President steered no-bid contract for project that he said would cost $1.8m to company that worked on his golf resort</p><p>The final drops of water have been added, and the nanobubbler switched on. <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/donaldtrump">Donald Trump</a>’s “beautiful” makeover of the Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool, one of Washington DC’s most historically symbolic attractions, is officially complete, and the public is getting its first glimpse of how the project’s $14.2m was spent.</p><p>Contrary to the president’s predictable assertion that it was receiving “rave reviews”, however, early impressions are decidedly mixed. Some of the first visitors declared themselves underwhelmed by the 2,000ft pool’s somewhat dull color – <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/2026/05/27/let-hear-pool-guy-trump-reflecting-pool-blue-paint-job/">American flag blue</a>, according to the specifications.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jun/11/washington-dc-reflecting-pool">Continue reading...</a>

Trump's Reflecting Pool Contract: A Fact-Check of Cost Claims ... on Over the past two weeks, a renovation project at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool has generated a cascade of competing claims about cost, contracting rules, contractor qualifications, and presidential involvement. President Trump has described the project as a model of government efficiency. Critics, federal documents, and an active federal lawsuit tell a more complicated story. This analysis examines what the documentary record establishes, where claims remain genuinely contested, and what readers should understand to evaluate the controversy on their own terms. Assistance from Claude AI. The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, built in 1922, stretches more than 2,000 feet between the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument. For decades, it has been plagued by two persistent problems: leaking joints between its concrete slabs — currently losing an estimated 16 million gallons of water per year — and recurring algae blooms that turn the water green (Fahrenthold, 2026a). The Obama administration spent more than $35 million on repairs between 2010 and 2012 without resolving either problem. During the Bide…