Trump Vows to Expose Vandalism Cover-Up at Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool
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President Trump stands firm against lawlessness, promising to present evidence in court that vandals severely damaged the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. Despite officials’ denials, Trump insists the truth will come out about the attack on a national monument.
President Donald Trump told CBS News senior White House correspondent Ed O'Keefe that he will provide proof in court that vandals cut a 350-foot slit in the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, which he says is responsible for the peeling paint after a $14.7 million sealant project. Trump described the damage as having been caused 'very violently' and suggested that fertilizer may have been added to the water to promote algae growth, highlighting the lengths to which these vandals will go to deface American heritage.
The U.S. Park Police report that five people have been arrested for Reflecting Pool vandalism and five others received federal citations, but, in a concerning move, neither the contractor, Atlantic Industrial Coatings, nor the National Park Service has confirmed that a cut slit caused the deterioration. Reporters who visited the site claim they found no visible slit, raising questions about whether officials are downplaying the damage.
Atlantic Industrial Coatings, which received a no-bid contract for the sealant work, admitted that 'some areas' of the project need repair but claimed the issues represent a small portion of the seven-acre pool and do not indicate a liner failure. The company said repairs can only be made after the pool is drained, which will occur when feasible.
When asked for evidence such as photos or video, Trump assured that the proof would become apparent 'at the right time' in court and called on reporters to contact the Parks Department or the Department of the Interior. CBS News has sought comment from the National Park Service and the Department of the Interior but has not received a response. Trump’s determination to reveal the truth stands in stark contrast to the apparent reluctance of officials to acknowledge the extent of the vandalism.
