Interior Secretary Doug Burgum Discusses Vandalism of National Mall’s Reflecting Pool

Doug Burgum, the Interior Secretary, recently appeared on ‘The Katie Miller Podcast’ to discuss vandalism incidents at the Reflecting Pool located at the National Mall. Hosted by Katie Miller, wife of Stephen Miller, a senior advisor to President Donald Trump, the podcast delved into the details of these incidents that trace back to early June.

Miller began the discussion with a probing question regarding the vandalism. ‘I’m a bit of a conspiracy theorist, so I’m going to ask this question,’ she started. ‘There are many cameras placed around the pool, along with National Guard presence. How is it possible that we cannot identify who has caused this damage?’

Burgum responded by acknowledging that there were initially few cameras at the location. ‘We had very few or no cameras at the beginning because cameras were focused on our monuments,’ he explained. ‘The Reflecting Pool, part of the Lincoln Memorial, had never before been a target for vandalism.’

Burgum remarked on the timing of these incidents, noting, ‘Vandalism began once President Trump decided to beautify the pool.’ Miller added to this, stating, ‘Until President Trump decided to beautify it.’ Burgum responded, ‘Yes, until he decided to beautify it, and then others saw it as a target.’

He further mentioned the White House’s efforts to reduce such activities. ‘We introduced mobile camera stations and towers, which captured some subsequent acts. Vandalism started as early as June 9, although we didn’t publicize it to avoid encouraging copycat behavior,’ Burgum detailed. ‘Now, our camera coverage has improved.’

Miller’s full interview with Burgum was set for release at 6 p.m. ET.

Workers apply a blue protective coating to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool on May 30, 2026, illustrating ongoing efforts for its preservation.

President Trump’s renovations around Washington, D.C., ahead of America’s 250th anniversary have faced criticism. Vandals have marked places with blood-written messages and damaged the Reflecting Pool at the Lincoln Memorial, prompting warnings from federal officials about this troubling trend. These incidents surfaced following President Trump’s orders to restore and repaint the Reflecting Pool, leading to protesters making multitude ‘razor-blade cuts’ and throwing fencing into the water.

Members of the National Guard observed as renovations progressed on the Reflecting Pool, with the pool being painted ‘American Flag Blue’ as part of the preparations for America’s 250th celebration.

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