The iconic Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool in Washington, DC, has rapidly transformed from a newly renovated "American flag blue" to a green hue, now teeming with algae. The dramatic change occurred mere weeks after a significant renovation project, costing $14.7 million, was completed.

The reflecting pool, a historic site near the Lincoln Memorial and the location of Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech, was originally constructed in 1922. The recent renovation involved repainting the pool's bottom with a specific shade of blue, which President Donald Trump had publicly championed. He announced the completion of this work on June 6.

However, by the following week, the blue material began to detach from the pool's surface, with fragments observed floating on the water. Simultaneously, the water itself started to turn a distinct green, indicating a significant algae bloom. In response, U.S. National Park Service crews began applying hydrogen peroxide to the pool, a measure initiated on June 16 to combat the proliferation of algae.

President Trump has attributed the pool's condition to vandalism, suggesting "radical left lunatics" were responsible. He stated on his Truth Social platform that the algae was "75% gone" and that the damage, which he claimed involved corrosive chemicals, was minor and would be repaired soon. However, he did not present evidence to support these claims.

A spokesperson for the Department of the Interior confirmed to Reuters that the pool is being treated with "high-tech nanobubble ozone technology" designed to eliminate algae and other contaminants. They also noted that the hydrogen peroxide being used is a less harsh alternative to chlorine, commonly employed in swimming pools.

Trump's accusations of sabotage were reiterated on his social media, where he alleged that individuals had "destroyed the grass outside of the Pool" and "done everything possible to hurt the inside surface that was just installed." He further mentioned that National Park Police had arrested multiple individuals in connection with the alleged damage.

The speed at which the algae has bloomed and the peeling of the new surface raise questions about the effectiveness of the renovation materials and the maintenance protocols for such a prominent national monument. The juxtaposition of a costly, recently completed project with its rapid deterioration highlights potential issues with the restoration process.

As National Park Service crews continue their treatment efforts, the focus remains on restoring the pool's appearance and functionality. The incident also brings renewed attention to the management and preservation of historical sites within the nation's capital, particularly in light of public statements from the President alleging deliberate damage.