Interior Secretary Burgum Defends Renovation Work Amid Vandalism Concerns

Interior Secretary Doug Burgum engaged in a heated exchange with CNN’s Dana Bash regarding the damage to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool in Washington, D.C. Burgum insisted that vandalism was responsible for the damage, following Bash’s inquiry about potential shortcomings in the Trump administration’s renovation efforts prior to the Fourth of July celebration.

Bash directly questioned Burgum, asking whether he was “100% sure” of vandalism being the cause and whether evidence of this claim existed. Burgum confidently responded, “Absolutely you can,” highlighting that photographic evidence could be obtained as the pool was drained. This claim was reinforced by the availability of visual documentation of the damage.

Burgum faced further scrutiny as Bash asked for proof showing individuals cutting a lengthy gash in the pool’s liner. Responding to why media might question the cause, Burgum expressed confusion. He described the installed material as an industrial liner, akin to those used in pickup truck beds, asserting its durability. Burgum noted that the material was “like a strong material, and it’s the size of eight football fields,” rejecting the idea of it peeling off.

The conversation continued with Burgum detailing the nature of the damage. He asserted that specific slices in the liner pointed to deliberate cuts. The secretary explained that the pool was previously leaking 45,000 gallons daily, but assured that this issue had been resolved, touting the successful fix achieved during the Trump administration.

The pool’s closure during the Fourth of July festivities drew further questioning from Bash. Burgum replied that fireworks setup led to its closure, emphasizing that this was a standard procedure for this celebration. He maintained that fencing surrounding the pool was solely for safety during the fireworks display.

Bash also raised concerns about potential damage caused by President Donald Trump’s motorcade crossing the pool in May. Burgum dismissed these claims, clarifying that the motorcade involved a Cadillac Escalade, not “The Beast,” ensuring the liner remained intact.

Burgum emphasized that the existing company responsible for installing the liner will manage the repairs, given their satisfactory performance in the initial renovation. He highlighted the modest size of the vandalism as fortunate, though estimated repair costs could reach tens of thousands of dollars.

The Associated Press reported plans to partially drain the pool in the coming week for repairs. Green Water Solutions and Atlantic Industrial Coatings, with contracts valued at $1.7 million and $14.7 million respectively, were mentioned in the context of the pool’s enhancements.

CJ Womack is an associate editor at Fox News, contributing to the news outlet since 2026. With a background in political science and journalism from Long Beach State University, Womack focuses on analyzing and reporting media’s influence on political and cultural dynamics. Contact CJ at [email protected].