Reflecting Pool Debacle

The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool became a political and visual embarrassment after President Donald Trump’s multimillion-dollar renovation, including a blue coating he promoted as “American Flag Blue,” quickly ran into trouble. Soon after the pool was refilled, algae blooms turned the water green and parts of the new liner or coating began peeling, prompting questions about whether the project was rushed and whether technical conditions created a “perfect storm” for algae. Trump blamed vandals and said repairs would come after July 4, while National Park Service filings said a liner had been cut with a sharp knife or razor. Fact-checkers and experts noted the administration had not substantiated broader claims that vandalism caused all the damage, leaving the episode to symbolize the risks of Trump’s hands-on push to remake Washington landmarks.