Trump’s Real Effect On DC
Interior Secretary Doug Burgum said Wednesday that the Trump administration is making major improvements across Washington, D.C., pointing to lower crime, restored national monuments, repairs to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, and preparations for America’s 250th anniversary celebration.
Speaking during an appearance on Newsmax’s “Rob Schmitt Tonight,” Burgum credited President Donald Trump with leading the effort to restore the nation’s capital.
“President Trump has done an incredible job making Washington, D.C., safer and more beautiful,” Burgum said. “The difference is clear. It all starts with strong leadership, and the president has shown what’s possible.”
Trump Administration Restores Historic Washington Landmarks
Burgum said the Trump administration has completed a wide range of restoration projects aimed at improving some of the nation’s most recognizable public spaces.
According to Burgum, crews have restored 48 monuments, repaired 23 fountains that had been inactive for years, and removed graffiti from more than 1,000 locations throughout Washington, D.C.
He also pointed to falling crime rates, saying the administration’s focus on public safety is helping make the nation’s capital a more welcoming destination for residents and visitors alike.
Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool Receives Long-Overdue Repairs
One of the administration’s highest-profile projects has been the restoration of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, one of Washington’s most visited landmarks.
Burgum said previous renovation efforts failed to permanently solve the pool’s long-standing water leak issues. He noted that a renovation completed during the Obama administration cost taxpayers approximately $35 million but did not provide a lasting fix.
Before the latest repairs began, Burgum said the reflecting pool was losing nearly 45,000 gallons of water every day.
To address the problem, crews installed a heavy-duty spray-on protective liner similar to the durable coatings commonly used in pickup truck beds. Burgum said the new material is designed to create a long-term seal that prevents future leaks while reducing maintenance costs.
Officials Say Vandalism Caused Recent Damage
Burgum pushed back against criticism surrounding recent damage to the reflecting pool, saying the repairs themselves were not at fault.
Instead, he blamed vandalism.
According to Burgum, investigators believe individuals used sharp cutting tools to damage portions of the protective liner, leaving nearly 350 feet of cuts throughout the surface.
Authorities have responded by making six arrests, issuing seven citations, and filing 14 police reports connected to the incidents.
Despite the damage, Burgum said the affected area represents only a tiny fraction of the eight-acre reflecting pool and can be repaired quickly.
New Technology Helps Keep the Reflecting Pool Clean
Burgum also addressed concerns about algae growth in the reflecting pool.
He said the Interior Department has installed advanced “nanobubbler” technology that cleans the water using ozone rather than traditional chemicals. According to Burgum, the system has already reduced algae buildup and is expected to provide a long-term solution for keeping the water clean.
“It’s working right now,” Burgum said.
America 250 Celebration Officially Gets Underway
Looking ahead, Burgum promoted the opening of the Great American State Fair on the National Mall, one of the first major events celebrating America’s upcoming 250th birthday.
He said he and Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins would help kick off the event, which features participation from all 50 states and all six U.S. territories. President Donald Trump was also scheduled to address attendees during the celebration.
Burgum also unveiled plans for the upcoming opening of the new Undercroft Museum, located beneath the Lincoln Memorial.
The museum will feature historic artifacts and original documents from the National Archives, including records personally signed by President Abraham Lincoln, such as the Emancipation Proclamation.
Burgum said the exhibit will give Americans a unique opportunity to experience some of the nation’s most important historical documents as the country prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary.
“As America approaches this historic milestone, restoring the nation’s capital and preserving its landmarks is an important way to honor the country’s heritage,” Burgum said, adding that more improvements to parks, monuments, and public spaces are expected in the months ahead.
The Trump administration has made preparations for America’s 250th anniversary a major priority, with restoration projects, historical exhibits, and nationwide celebrations designed to highlight the country’s history and strengthen national pride ahead of the landmark celebration.
