President Donald Trump stated on July 17, 2026, that the White House is seeking a "vandal proof material" following reported damage to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool in Washington, D.C. Trump described the damage on Truth Social, referring to the alleged perpetrators as "Deranged Vandals" and expressing concern over the repairs needed after a 250-foot-long gash was inflicted on the pool. He mentioned that the pool was emptied for repairs and criticized the actions of the individuals involved, stating, "What kind of animals would do such a thing?"
Multiple arrests have been made in connection with the vandalism. Trump noted that the pool had previously been restored as part of efforts to refurbish D.C. landmarks ahead of the nation's 250th anniversary, but the project faced issues such as an algae bloom and peeling coatings. According to U.S. Park Police, damage was reported on June 9, with evidence of caulk spread over foam sealant and approximately 70 fence post caps thrown into the pool. Former U.S. Olympic canoeist David Hearn has been indicted on a felony destruction of property charge related to the incident, which he denies, claiming he only touched a loose piece of the coating out of curiosity.