U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell (D-MI) stated on Monday that algae in the reflecting pool in Washington, D.C. is a significant concern for her constituents. During an interview on CNN, Dingell described the situation as 'sad' and a 'real problem,' noting that it was a topic of discussion among her constituents over the weekend. She emphasized the importance of the reflecting pool as part of the beauty of Washington, D.C. and mentioned that algae growth is also an issue in Michigan's Great Lakes.
The comments come amid ongoing maintenance efforts by the National Park Service, which has been cleaning algae from the pool following a $14.8 million restoration. Algae has been a recurring issue since the pool opened in 1922. Additionally, three-time U.S. Olympian David Hearn was arrested for touching a loose piece of coating in the pool. Viral videos on social media have also shown protests related to the algae issue, with some individuals expressing support for algae in a humorous context.
Former President Donald Trump has criticized the situation, referring to the alleged vandalism of the reflecting pool and calling for its restoration ahead of the 250th anniversary of the United States. He has warned that there are severe penalties for the destruction of national monuments.