Trump Orders Lincoln Memorial Pool Emptied Amid Vandalism Controversy

President Donald Trump announced late Monday that the Lincoln Memorial's Reflecting Pool has been completely drained to begin repairs, amid escalating controversy over damage to the structure and its causes. The move comes after weeks of accusations from the president blaming alleged vandalism for the issues, which have also been marked by technical failures and political scrutiny.

"Today we emptied the beautiful Reflecting Pool to repair the destruction and damage caused by vandals two weeks ago," Trump wrote on his social media platform, Truth Social. He explained that the National Park Service had to remove the water to address waterproofing problems and restore the surface. "It will be refilled soon and put back into operation," he added. Waterproofing issues occur when a system loses its ability to block fluids, leading to leaks or seepage.

The episode is part of an ambitious White House plan to renovate the iconic water feature as preparations are made for the 250th anniversary of American independence. Trump had announced in April his intention to modernize the pool and showcase it as a centerpiece of the national celebrations. However, the project has encountered setbacks since its early stages.

Earlier this summer, the pool's water turned a fluorescent green due to algae bloom, drawing public criticism and requiring additional interventions. Shortly after, cracks and detachments appeared on the newly renovated surface, deepening doubts about the quality of the work. In this context, the administration has pointed to vandalism as the primary explanation for the damage.

The National Park Service reported last month that the surface had been cut with a sharp object, possibly a knife, though it did not publicly detail the evidence supporting this hypothesis. Trump reinforced this version, claiming the damage included cuts up to 274 meters long and that the bottom lining had been lifted "with great force."

Authorities have arrested several individuals in connection with these events. Among them is former Olympic swimmer David Hearn, accused of tearing off part of the pool's bottom sealant. Last week, Hearn pleaded not guilty in the Superior Court of Washington D.C., maintaining he only touched the material out of curiosity during a break on a more than 100-kilometer bike ride. According to his account, he released the fragment when a park employee indicated he should.