Lead
The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool on Washington's National Mall, which President Donald Trump had renovated at a cost of $14.7 million, has developed peeling paint and algae blooms within weeks of the project's completion. Trump has blamed the problems on vandalism, but has not offered evidence to support his allegations.
U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro said on Sunday that people caught vandalizing the pool will be fully prosecuted, adding that even minor crimes must be prosecuted to keep the capital safe.
Coverage Comparison
Multiple news outlets have reported on the condition of the reflecting pool and Trump's claims. France 24 reported that the pool is set to be drained again due to renovation problems, and noted that Trump blamed the issues on vandalism, citing a 350-foot gash he claimed was deliberately cut into the pool. The outlet also mentioned that the refurbishment was part of Trump's push to turn the landmark "Old Glory Blue" ahead of the 250th anniversary celebrations.
The South China Morning Post focused on the peeling paint and Trump's social media allegations, noting that he offered no details to substantiate his claim. The outlet also covered Pirro's statement that vandalism would be fully prosecuted.
TASS reported Trump's description of "serious cases" of vandalism at the pool, including damage to the grass and the inside surface. The agency also noted that law enforcement has launched an investigation, and that Trump claimed the damage was minor and would be repaired.
The Hindu's coverage included descriptions of the increased security presence around the pool, including National Guard patrols, solar-powered light towers, and surveillance cameras. The outlet also reported on a National Park Service official's sworn statement describing apparent intentional damage, and noted that about 70 fence post tops were thrown into the pool.
Key Claims
- Renovation and Problems: The pool was newly renovated at Trump's request, with the project declared complete on June 6. The pool has since been fouled by green algae, with chips of blue liner peeling off the bottom.
- Vandalism Allegations: Trump claimed that vandals destroyed the grass outside the pool and harmed the inside surface. He also cited a "350-foot gash" and mentioned that six people had been arrested and seven others were under investigation, without providing evidence. A National Park Service official reported apparent intentional damage, including a cut caulk over foam sealant and destruction of delaminating surface material.
- Prosecution Pledge: U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro said that anyone caught vandalizing the pool will face the criminal justice system. Citations for vandalism have been issued.
- Security Measures: National Guard troops patrol the area, and solar-powered light towers illuminate it at night. Mobile security stations with surveillance cameras ring the perimeter.
- Investigation: Law enforcement agencies have launched an investigation into the incident, according to Trump.
- Pool Drainage: The pool is set to be drained again due to the renovation problems.
Perspectives
Trump Administration: President Trump has repeatedly blamed "vandalism" and "sick" individuals for the pool's problems, insisting that the damage was intentional, and has not provided evidence to support his claims.
U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro: Pirro has promised full prosecution of anyone caught vandalizing the pool, and warned that adding products that generate algae could lead to more severe charges.
National Park Service Official: Frank Lands, a National Park Service official, stated in a sworn court statement that Park Police examined apparent intentional damage to the pool, including a cut caulk and destruction of surface material.
Tourists: A tourist from Seattle, Mary Jane Willard, expressed sadness at the heavy security presence, saying it shouldn't be there.