White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt criticized individuals accused of damaging the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool during a recent appearance on Fox News, saying authorities have already made several arrests in connection with the incident.
According to Leavitt, at least five people have been taken into custody, while officials have received 14 vandalism reports related to the Reflecting Pool. She addressed the issue while still away from her regular White House briefing duties following the birth of her daughter earlier this year.
The interview came as Fox News host Sean Hannity discussed President Donald Trump’s efforts to restore the historic Reflecting Pool. Following the completion of the renovation, algae growth appeared in the water, leading the Trump administration to claim that opponents intentionally sabotaged the project.
Leavitt criticized demonstrators who gathered near the Reflecting Pool, including some wearing algae-themed costumes and displaying signs supporting what they called “Team Algae.” She described the protests as misguided and argued that beautifying the nation’s capital should not be a partisan issue.
She said President Trump had promised during his campaign to improve the appearance and safety of Washington, D.C., and maintained that his administration was fulfilling that commitment.
Among those arrested was former U.S. Olympic canoeist David “Davey” Hearn, who told NBC News he was detained for approximately five hours after touching a detached piece of coating at the Reflecting Pool.
President Trump said the Reflecting Pool may need to be drained again after meeting with contractors at Camp David. He later stated that he personally inspected the site while traveling aboard Marine One.
In posts on Truth Social, Trump alleged that chemicals had been illegally poured into the water and claimed the pool had suffered a large cut extending hundreds of feet. He warned that damaging federal monuments could result in severe criminal penalties, including prison time.
When reporters later asked to see evidence of the alleged damage, Trump responded that the information would eventually be presented in court and suggested contacting the National Park Service or the Department of the Interior for additional details.
The $14.8 million restoration project has generated public debate, with some Democratic lawmakers and local residents questioning the condition of the Reflecting Pool. Representative Debbie Dingell of Michigan said on CNN that many of her constituents were upset by the algae issue.
The Trump administration has maintained that it will continue efforts to restore and preserve the nation’s capital despite ongoing criticism and protests.
