Trump Acts Swiftly to Restore Iconic Reflecting Pool After Leftist Vandalism
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President Donald Trump announced July 13 that the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool will soon be refilled and reopened after decisive action to repair damage caused by vandalism, demonstrating his commitment to preserving American heritage.
President Donald Trump announced on July 13 via his social media platform that the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool will be refilled and restored to service after a second drainage, which was necessary to address deliberate damage at the bottom of the basin. The pool, a symbol of American pride holding about 6.5 million gallons, was first emptied in April to replace a leaking basin and to apply a new 'American Flag Blue' coating, a patriotic upgrade. After the initial repairs were completed in mid-June, the pool’s lining began to peel and algae appeared, requiring a second round of repairs that began on July 10.
Trump revealed that the damage consisted of long slashes cut into the pool floor, which he directly attributed to acts of vandalism—an unfortunate sign of disrespect for national monuments. He assured the public that the repairs would make the pool 'better than ever' and that the work would be finished soon. Law enforcement has charged at least three individuals, including former Olympian David Hearn, with property damage for allegedly removing pieces of the lining; all have pleaded not guilty, but the administration is taking a firm stance against such lawlessness.
The renovation contract was awarded to Atlantic Industrial Coatings LLC, which applied a polyurea coating designed to prevent leaks. The project’s cost, initially estimated at $1.5 million, increased to more than $16 million by June, reflecting the scale of the damage and the need for high-quality restoration. The National Park Service and the Interior Department have not provided additional comment, focusing instead on supporting the restoration.
'We wanted to wait until after the July 4th weekend,' Trump wrote, demonstrating respect for national celebrations. The Reflecting Pool, a cherished feature since 1923, has faced maintenance challenges before, but President Trump’s decisive leadership is ensuring its preservation for future generations.