WATCH: Interior Releases Footage of Two People Damaging Reflecting Pool at Lincoln Memorial
The Department of the Interior released surveillance footage Tuesday that it says shows two people damaging part of the Reflecting Pool at the Lincoln Memorial. The department said the pair were seen reaching into the pool, removing a piece of the lining, and trying to cause further damage.
“In the video, you are seeing two suspects observed destroying and removing a piece of the lining and attempting destruction of the lining,” the Department of the Interior said in a statement. “This incident took place on June 19, 2026, and we are investigating. Destroying, injuring, defacing or removing cultural or archeological resources is a federal crime.”
The footage comes as workers put up fencing around the Reflecting Pool and repairs were expected to begin soon. The pool sits at one of the most visible spots on the National Mall, so any damage there draws quick attention. The incident also comes after reports of vandalism involving the phrase “86 47” appearing on the grass and in the pool area.
There has also been a public fight over what the damage looks like and how it should be described. On Monday, Trump told reporters they could check with the agencies handling the site if they wanted proof. “You’ll see it in court, you’ll see it in court, but all you have to do is call the Parks Department, call the Department of Interior, and I don’t know if their lawyers will allow you to speak to them because you know you write fake— you write fake news, but call the Interior Department,” Trump said.
The controversy widened after ABC’s Jonathan Karl posted a video on social media on Friday and commented on the changes at the site. “You remember $14 million was spent to drain this whole thing and to paint the bottom American flag blue,” Karl said. “As you can see, it’s all green now. They know that. They’re trying to kill the algae, but as they’re doing that, something else has happened,” he added.
Trump later called Karl a “lightweight” for “sticking his hand into the Pool, and trying to rip the rubber off of the surface.” On Tuesday, Trump also said lawsuits are being prepared against ABC. “We are preparing lawsuits against ABC for false reporting. I like their money, which will be given to the U.S. Treasury!” Trump said.
The investigation is still ongoing, and the Interior Department says the video is part of the evidence it is reviewing.
https://x.com/hicharliecotton/status/2069513973234340258?s=46