Trump blames 'vandalism' for algae-plagued Reflecting Pool woes in Washington DC

Former President Donald Trump has attributed the recent algae bloom and peeling paint at Washington D.C.'s Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool to acts of vandalism. These issues emerged shortly after a $14.2 million renovation project aimed at restoring the pool's appearance. Trump, who made these claims without providing substantial evidence, suggested that individuals had damaged the newly installed surface and surrounding areas, and even poured chemicals into the water.

The former president also stated that multiple individuals had been arrested by US Park Police in connection with the alleged vandalism. However, at least one individual, David Hearn, who was reportedly seen touching the peeling paint, denied causing any damage. The Department of the Interior has been actively working to address the algae and peeling, employing treatments such as hydrogen peroxide and "nanobubble ozone technology".

Despite the ongoing efforts, Trump indicated that the Reflecting Pool might need to be drained again to facilitate necessary repairs to its surface. He maintained that the damage was localized and that repairs would commence promptly.