Trump stands by Reflecting Pool contractor despite repair row

The Trump administration has ruled out reopening the bidding process for repairs to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, pressing ahead with the same contractor despite mounting political scrutiny over the troubled renovation.

Interior Secretary Doug Burgum insisted the company responsible for the project had "done a fantastic job", even as questions continue over damage to the pool, no-bid contracts and the cost to taxpayers.

Vandalism Claim Drives White House Response

Burgum backed President Donald Trump's claim that the newly installed liner was deliberately damaged by vandals, saying multiple cuts would require parts of the century-old pool to be drained again for repairs.

He said the administration believed the damage could amount to a felony because of the repair costs, which he estimated could run into tens of thousands of dollars.

When asked whether photographic evidence existed to support the vandalism claims, Burgum did not give a direct answer.

Project Faces Mounting Scrutiny

The refurbishment was launched ahead of America's 250th Independence Day celebrations, with Trump ordering the pool to be repainted in what he described as "American flag blue".

But the project quickly ran into problems. An algae bloom developed after the pool was refilled, while reports emerged that sections of the new protective coating had begun peeling away.

Despite the setbacks, Burgum insisted the work itself met a high standard and said safety concerns linked to fireworks—not construction issues—were responsible for the pool's temporary closure.

Political Pressure Intensifies

Federal prosecutors have charged several people over alleged damage to the pool, including former Olympian David Hearn, who denies wrongdoing. His lawyers have accused the government of pursuing an exaggerated and politically motivated case.

Meanwhile, Democratic lawmakers are investigating the awarding of multimillion-dollar no-bid contracts to companies with previous ties to Trump. They are demanding answers over project failures, procurement decisions and whether taxpayers are receiving value for money.

With repairs now set to continue under the original contractor, the dispute is evolving from a maintenance problem into another politically charged battle over accountability, public spending and presidential decision-making.

Trump's administration won't seek new bids to repair the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool