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Drained reflecting pool reveals Trump’s ‘American flag blue’ liner is now closer to gray
The Guardian • • nation
Key Points:
- The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool's protective coating, initially described by Donald Trump as "American flag blue," has noticeably faded and appears grayer since it was applied this spring.
- The renovation project, initially estimated at $1.5 million, has escalated to over $16 million and has faced issues such as algae blooms and peeling paint shortly after completion.
- Trump has blamed vandals for damage to the pool's liner, including a claimed "350-foot gash," though no large slash marks were visible during recent inspections; several individuals have been charged with misdemeanors related to the damage.
- The National Park Service plans to repair the vandalism and refill the pool after debris removal, while critics argue the damage stems from poor workmanship rather than vandalism.
- The reflecting pool project is among several controversial initiatives led by Trump in Washington, including the demolition of the White House East Wing and plans for a large arch near the Lincoln Memorial.
