On June 19, 2026, crews were seen removing algae from the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. President Donald Trump claimed that vandals damaged the pool, stating that the water would need to be drained for repairs. Trump alleged that police arrested multiple individuals for vandalism, although one person, David Hearn, stated he was arrested after touching a piece of material from the pool. Hearn, a three-time US Olympian, denied any wrongdoing, claiming he was merely curious about the condition of the pool. He is scheduled to appear in court on July 9. The $14 million renovation project aimed to restore the pool ahead of America's 250th anniversary, but has drawn attention for its algae issues and sparked debate among tourists and locals. The Interior Department has downplayed the algae problem, asserting efforts to clear it. Trump criticized the Biden administration for not addressing the pool's condition earlier and expanded the project's scope, which led to increased costs.
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Trump Claims Vandalism Led to Damage of Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool
President Donald Trump claimed that vandalism has caused damage to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, necessitating repairs. David Hearn, a man arrested for touching the pool's material, denied vandalism charges. The $14 million renovation project has faced scrutiny due to algae issues and has drawn public attention ahead of America's 250th anniversary.
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Trump claims vandals will force drainage of algae-plagued Reflecting Pool
Trump Claims Vandalism Led to Damage of Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool