Trump Touts Plans to 'Fix' Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool

Former president boasts renovation will be 'much more beautiful' and done faster and cheaper than expected.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 3:48am

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A serene, cinematic painting of the Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool, with the iconic memorial in the background and the pool's still waters reflecting the surrounding architecture. The scene is bathed in warm, golden light and deep shadows, creating a nostalgic, contemplative mood.The Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool, a beloved Washington landmark, faces an uncertain future as former President Trump announces plans for a major renovation project.Washington Today

Former President Donald Trump has announced plans to renovate the iconic Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool in Washington, D.C., claiming the project will be completed faster and at a lower cost than previous estimates, and result in a 'much more beautiful' final product. Trump made the announcement on his social media platform, Truth Social, criticizing the Biden administration and federal judges for policies related to immigration and the Iran nuclear deal.

Why it matters

The Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the nation's capital, and any changes to its appearance would be closely watched. Trump's renovation plans are part of a broader effort by the former president to leave his mark on Washington, D.C. through various construction and beautification projects, which have drawn both praise and criticism.

The details

Trump revealed the renovation plans in a Truth Social post, claiming the work will take a 'fraction of the time' and cost compared to previous estimates. He also posted a video of the pool, edited to highlight the green-tinted water, and accused the Biden administration of 'filth and incompetence.' Trump announced the plans to 'fix' the reflecting pool last November, along with Interior Secretary Doug Burgum.

  • Trump announced the renovation plans in November 2025.
  • The reflecting pool was previously closed for renovations for two years and reopened in 2012.

The players

Donald Trump

The former president of the United States who is overseeing the renovation project at the Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool.

Doug Burgum

The current Interior Secretary who is working with Trump on the renovation plans.

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What they’re saying

“We were told it was going to take YEARS to do this job, and it will take a fraction of that time, at a fraction of the cost — and it will be much more beautiful than the day it was built!”

— Donald Trump, Former President

“You won't be seeing this Biden filth and incompetence much longer!”

— Donald Trump, Former President

What’s next

The renovation project is expected to begin in the coming months, with Trump promising a faster and more cost-effective completion compared to previous work on the reflecting pool.

The takeaway

Trump's plans to renovate the Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool are the latest in a series of construction and beautification projects he has pursued in Washington, D.C. since leaving office. While the former president touts the benefits of his plans, the changes to one of the capital's most iconic landmarks are likely to face close scrutiny from the public and preservation groups.