White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said during a Fox News interview that authorities have arrested at least five people in connection with alleged vandalism at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. She added that police have received 14 vandalism reports related to the site. Although Leavitt has remained on maternity leave since giving birth to her daughter in early May, she appeared on television to discuss the controversy surrounding the restoration project.
The discussion followed remarks from Fox News host Sean Hannity about President Donald Trump’s effort to restore the Reflecting Pool. After the renovation was completed, algae began appearing in the water. The Trump administration has alleged that critics intentionally sabotaged the project, claiming that protesters have gathered near the pool, with some wearing algae-themed costumes and carrying signs expressing support for the algae growth.
Leavitt criticized the demonstrations, calling them “ridiculous” and questioning the protesters’ motives. She argued that President Trump’s goal of improving the appearance of the nation’s capital was part of his campaign promises and said he is delivering on his commitment to make Washington, D.C., “safe and beautiful again.”
Among those arrested was former U.S. Olympic canoeist David “Davey” Hearn, who told NBC News he was detained for five hours after touching a detached section of the Reflecting Pool’s coating. Trump later stated that the pool may need to be drained again after meeting with contractors at Camp David. He also claimed to have personally inspected the site after Marine One flew over the National Mall.
In posts on Truth Social, Trump alleged that chemicals had been illegally dumped into the water and that the pool had suffered a long tear in its protective lining. He warned that damaging federal property could carry a prison sentence of up to 10 years and said those responsible would be prosecuted. Speaking with reporters, Trump described the damage as a “350-foot slit” and said evidence would be presented in court.
The $14.8 million restoration project has generated criticism from some Democratic lawmakers and Washington residents. During an appearance on CNN, Representative Debbie Dingell of Michigan said many of her constituents were upset by the algae issue. Despite the criticism, Trump has pledged to continue efforts aimed at improving the nation’s capital.
