Donald Trump has said the Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool will probably be drained for repairs after a costly $14.7 million (£11.57 million) renovation collapsed within weeks, leaving Washington's most iconic landmark marred by green algae and peeling paint. The project jumped from $1.5 million (£1.18 million) to $14.7 million (£11.57 million) through a no-bid contract, prompting lawmakers to call for an investigation into taxpayer waste.
The reflecting pool has been plagued by algae and peeling pool paint since the renovation was completed, prompting Trump to blame 'disgraceful vandalism' despite National Park Service officials citing leaking pipes disrupting the filtration system as the likely cause. Three-time Olympian David Hearn was arrested after touching peeling paint liner and denies the vandalism claims, while Trump has provided no details on other alleged arrests.
