Trump says beleaguered reflecting pool will ‘probably’ be drained for repairs

Donald Trump announced on Saturday, June 21, 2026, that the Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool in Washington D.C. will "probably" be drained for repairs. This decision follows a recent $14.2 million renovation that has been marred by algae blooms and peeling paint. In a Truth Social post, Trump stated that after meeting with contractors, they would "probably be forced to release and drain much of the water in order to do the necessary repairs, but will have them done as quickly as possible." The issues with the pool come as the United States approaches its 250th anniversary celebrations next month. Trump attributed some of the problems to "disgraceful vandalism."