Former President Donald Trump recently stated he is collaborating with the Department of the Interior to address the condition of the Reflecting Pool at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C.

Criticism of Current Maintenance

Trump described the pool as “absolutely filthy” in a social media post. He asserted that the necessary repairs were originally scheduled to be completed under the Biden administration, but claimed, “Sleepy Joe doesn’t know what ‘CLEAN’ or proper maintenance is — The President and Secretary do!”

Regular Cleaning Schedule

The Reflecting Pool, situated between the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument, routinely accumulates debris throughout the year. This includes bird feces, bacteria, pollen, and trash due to high foot traffic.

Cleaning Process

According to reports, the pool undergoes an annual cleaning. The park service typically drains the pool and employs a “Super Scrubber” technique to thoroughly clean the facility. The next scheduled deep cleaning is planned for late February 2025.

Department of the Interior Response

The Department of the Interior responded to Trump’s post, stating, “@Interior is working to Make D.C. Safe and Beautiful! Proud to work with you on this important task, Mr. President.”

Ongoing Challenges

Maintaining the Reflecting Pool presents ongoing challenges due to its location and popularity. Regular upkeep is essential to preserve the iconic landmark’s appearance and hygiene.