Trump says Lincoln Reflecting Pool operational despite algae and paint issues, announces golf course renovation

President Donald Trump posted on June 28 that the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool on the National Mall is "in full use" despite an ongoing algae bloom and visible peeling of blue paint applied during recent renovations. The post followed a tour of Washington landmarks where he claimed many monuments had been "completely renovated and restored" and outlined a plan to begin work on the East Potomac Golf Links in September.

Trump attributed the pool's condition to "Criminal, Radical Left Vandals," alleging they caused extensive damage, though no evidence was provided. The pool has experienced an algae bloom since at least June 16, a recurring issue for the historic site, and the paint began to peel around June 18.

Interior Secretary Doug Burgum told Fox News on June 27 that seven arrests and 18 police reports were linked to the pool, promising full prosecution. One identified arrest involved former Olympic canoeist David Hearn, who was charged with misdemeanor destruction of government property and denied vandalizing the pool. A separate citation was issued to a 17-year-old for taking a piece of paint, according to a Reuters photo.

National Park Service deputy director of operations Frank Lands said a portion of the paint and caulk had been cut with a sharp instrument, but did not specify when the damage occurred or confirm it as vandalism. The statement was part of a lawsuit challenging the legality of the renovations.

In the same social media message, Trump announced that renovations of the East Potomac Golf Links would start on September 1, describing the site as "fantastic" and promising to build "one of the Greatest Golf Courses anywhere in the World" with architect Tom Fazio. The project follows a lawsuit by a nonprofit and local residents seeking to block the overhaul; a May agreement allowed the nonprofit to continue operating the course while the federal government proceeds with the redesign.