John J. Cafaro, a businessman known for his substantial donations to former President Donald Trump, faces scrutiny over potential connections to a company contracted for a water purification project at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. This landmark, which underwent recent renovations during Trump’s presidency, has been criticized due to algae blooms turning its water green.
Federal contract records reveal that a $1.7 million contract was awarded to Greenwater Services, based in Brookfield, Ohio. This company was tasked with installing a ‘nano bubble’ system to eradicate algae. According to The New York Times, Greenwater Services is owned by J.J. Cafaro Investment Trust, led by Cafaro.
Cafaro has financially supported Trump significantly, contributing $250,000 in 2020 and $100,000 in 2024, as per Federal Election Commission records reviewed by Newsweek. Despite these connections, Katie Martin, spokesperson for the Department of the Interior, stated that Greenwater Services was chosen for its expertise and resources, without White House involvement.
Attempts to contact Greenwater Services for comments were made by Newsweek via email.
Who Is John J. Cafaro?
Cafaro’s LinkedIn profile outlines his experience as an Ohio retail and manufacturing executive involved in significant projects like South Hill Mall and Meadowbrook Mall. He has also managed assets in Florida and West Virginia.
In 2021, Cafaro pleaded guilty to bribing former Congressman James Traficant Jr., a Democrat from Ohio, and anticipated testifying against him. Additionally, in 2020, he pleaded guilty to a campaign finance violation, according to Cleveland.com.
Contract Comes Under Scrutiny
The contract drew attention from notable Democrats. Hunter Biden, son of former President Joe Biden, expressed disbelief on X. Moe Davis, a former U.S. Air Force colonel and congressional candidate, highlighted Cafaro’s previous convictions for bribery and a campaign finance crime, questioning the nature of Cafaro receiving the no-bid contract.
This is a developing story, and updates will be provided as they become available.
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