Trump says proof of his allegations that vandals cut Reflecting Pool paint will be provided in court

Trump Claims Vandalism Caused Reflecting Pool Paint Damage, Promises Court Evidence

Allegations of Vandalism and Renovation Concerns

Trump says proof of his allegations - President Donald Trump asserted on Monday that evidence of his claim regarding vandals damaging the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool will be presented in court. He attributed the peeling paint on the recently renovated yet algae-infested project to an intentional act, not to the quality of the craftsmanship. According to the U.S. Park Police, five individuals have been arrested for vandalism linked to the pool, while five others received federal citations. However, neither the project's contractor nor the National Park Service has confirmed that a slit was responsible for the paint issues.

"When you have a 350-foot slit, from one end to the other, you think that's proof?" Trump stated, emphasizing his belief that the vandalism was deliberate.

Exchange with Reporter Highlights Doubt

During an interview with CBS News correspondent Ed O'Keefe, Trump maintained that the damage was caused by vandals rather than faulty installation. When pressed about proof such as photos or video showing the slit, he responded with confidence. "You'll see it in court," he said, suggesting the evidence would be undeniable.

"You'll see it in court. You'll see it in court, but all you have to do is call the Parks Department, call the Department of Interior," Trump added, likely referencing Interior Secretary Doug Burgum.

Fertilizer Theory Adds to Controversy

Trump also proposed an alternative explanation for the algae problem, claiming that someone might have added fertilizer to the water. "If you put fertilizer in the water, you get algae," he said, though he did not provide any supporting documentation for the assertion.

Contractor Acknowledges Minor Repairs

Atlantic Industrial Coatings, the firm contracted to apply the $14.7 million sealant, told CBS News that certain areas require fixes. The company stated these repairs are part of the project's warranty and cannot be completed until the pool is drained. "These areas are a very small part of the massive 7-acre project," they noted, dismissing the idea of a systemic failure.