Stay up to date with notifications from The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.AllNewsSportCultureLifestylePresident Donald Trump stated that "vandals" and "sleazebags" who allegedly damaged the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool should face severe consequences. The pool was recently drained again for repairs to fix extensive damage, including 300-yard long slashes and an uplifted floor, which Trump attributed to "thugs". This follows a previous $16 million refurbishment where the new sealant peeled and algae bloomed, which Trump blamed on "Democrat-aligned saboteurs". Six individuals were arrested in connection with the damage, with former Olympic canoeist David Hearn pleading not guilty; his lawyers argue he is being scapegoated for poor quality repair work. The Reflecting Pool remained closed for the Independence Day weekend and has since undergone further repairs with increased security, prompting lawmakers to demand answers regarding the situation. In fullTrump says the ‘vandals’ and ‘sleazebags’ he claims cut up the Lincoln Reflecting Pool will ‘pay a big price’More bulletinsThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in

The president once again claimed, without evidence, that the Reflecting Pool’s floor was damaged by vandals and alleged “300 yards long” slashes on its floor.

The president once again claimed, without evidence, that the Reflecting Pool’s floor was damaged by vandals and alleged “300 yards long” slashes on the surface.