Facing pushback over his Reflecting Pool fixation, Trump quietly changes his story
Yahoo • • nation
Key Points:
- Donald Trump's renovation project for the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool has faced significant issues, including a lawsuit and a ballooning cost of $13.1 million, over seven times the original estimate, awarded through a no-bid contract that bypassed federal procurement laws.
- Trump initially claimed a hands-on role in selecting the contractor, but recently changed his story, stating the Interior Department awarded the contract to an unknown contractor without his involvement, indicating political concerns.
- Interior Department staff reported quality problems with the repair work, such as bubbles, holes, and uneven waterproofing application, raising doubts about the contractor's performance.
- Interior Secretary Doug Burgum faced criticism from House Democrats for justifying the no-bid contract under emergency powers, with his explanations deemed insufficient amid ongoing scrutiny.
- The evolving narrative and mounting issues suggest Trump is attempting to distance himself from the troubled project as it draws increasing political and public attention.