Trump Blames 'Sick and Deviant' Individuals for Vandalism at Reflecting Pool

The Reflecting Pool in Washington, D.C., has been newly renovated, but the blue paint characteristic of the American flag faded just weeks after the repairs were completed. The previous Trump administration disbursed $14.7 million (approximately Rp. 260 billion) to the company Atlantic Industrial Coatings without a tender process. The renovation was carried out to recoat the pool with the blue colour of the American flag ahead of the United States’ 250th anniversary celebrations in July. However, not long after the renovation was finished, the paint on the pool began to peel and the water turned green due to algae growth. The rectangular pool, which is about 600 metres long, will now be drained and renovated again by the contractor as part of the project warranty, officials said on Monday (22/06). Trump blamed unnamed individuals, calling them ‘sick and deviant’ for allegedly vandalising the pool. ‘Among the statues and fountains we rebuilt, renovated, and cleaned, the only one vandalised by the perpetrators was the pool area. This matter is being handled as quickly as possible!’ Trump wrote on his social media platform, Truth Social, on Monday (22/06). ‘There will be a threat of a 10-year prison sentence for anyone who vandalises or attempts to dismantle the facility, this rule will be strictly enforced!’ he added. However, Trump provided no evidence to support the alleged vandalism. He also claimed there was an 80–90 metre crack on the surface of the pool, possibly caused by a sharp object. ‘The perpetrators damaged it with a knife,’ he said, without providing evidence to back up the accusation. Five people have been arrested for alleged vandalism of the pool, while five others have received violation notices. One of those arrested is a former Olympic athlete, who has publicly denied the charges.