Trump Blames Vandalism for Reflecting Pool Algae; Investigation Launched
Summary
President Trump claimed the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool was vandalized, causing algae bloom and peeling paint, despite reports indicating a company owned by a Trump donor received a $1.7 million no-bid contract for a new cleaning system.
How coverage differs
- Left: Trump's baseless vandalism claims deflect from donor's no-bid contract Left-leaning outlets highlighted President Trump's claim that the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool was vandalized, while simultaneously featuring critics who mocked his explanation as 'astronomically stupid'. They focused on the skepticism surrounding his rationale for the algae bloom and peeling paint, especially in light of a no-bid contract.
- Center: Trump blames vandalism for Reflecting Pool algae, defends project Center outlets reported that President Trump stated the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool was vandalized, causing its algae bloom and peeling paint. They also noted his defense of the administration's response to the pool's condition.