Trump Urges Quick Fix on Algae‑Plagued Reflecting Pool
President Donald Trump announced on Truth Social that repairs to the Reflecting Pool, an iconic spot between the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument, would start immediately. He said he had inspected the pool aerially during a helicopter return from Camp David.
Despite a multi‑million‑dollar refurbishment – including a fresh coat of blue paint – the pool still develops a bright green algae bloom. Officials are using chemicals such as hydrogen peroxide to scrub the water and staff are working to clean the surface with long poles.
Trump also blamed vandals for damaging the pool’s paint in time for the 250th anniversary of Independence Day. Police have arrested five people, issued citations for five more, and filed 14 reports. The U.S. Attorney for Washington DC, Jeanine Pirro, pledged to prosecute anyone who vandalises the site.
A university professor confirmed that the green algae is species Desmodesmus, harmless to humans and wildlife, but authorities warn new breeds could carry bacteria. A dead duckling was also spotted floating in the pool over the weekend.
