White House Asks DOJ to Revive Reflecting Pool Vandalism Charges
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The Story
The White House is reportedly asking the Department of Justice to consider reviving felony vandalism charges against former Olympic canoeist David Hearn. This push comes weeks after U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro admitted in court filings that claims of Hearn vandalizing the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool were likely false. The drained pool and its walkways were seen in Washington, D.C. on July 30, 2026. Media reports at the time indicated that renovations had caused algae growth and that chemicals used to treat it were lifting the pool's blue lining. When Hearn reached into the water to feel the lining, he was arrested. Pirro dropped the charges in late July, citing internal Interior Department documents that showed damage was likely due to chemicals, not vandals. President Donald Trump has reportedly insisted that Hearn and others damaged the pool. The Wall Street Journal first reported potential plans to renew the case, citing sources with knowledge of White House discussions. The push to renew the case is considered unusual given Pirro's admission in official court records. Todd Blanche was recently sworn in to formally lead the Justice Department. Representative Jamie Raskin has launched an investigation into the Trump administration's handling of the case, sending letters to Interior Secretary Doug Burgum and Pirro. Raskin questioned whether DOJ prosecutors knowingly brought a bogus indictment and if the Interior Department withheld evidence. He also asked if President Trump pressured either department to take wrongful actions against Hearn. A poll indicated that Americans are not widely accepting Trump's explanation of the vandalism.
The Spread
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What they agree on
- The White House is reportedly asking the Department of Justice to consider reviving charges against David Hearn.
- U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro dropped the initial charges against Hearn in late July.
- Pirro's office stated in court filings that damage to the Reflecting Pool was likely due to a botched installation and chemicals, not vandalism.
- President Donald Trump has reportedly insisted that the pool was vandalized.
- The Wall Street Journal reported on the White House's request to the DOJ.
Where they split
- The Oregonian and other outlets report on a poll showing skepticism of Trump's vandalism story, while other outlets focus on the White House's request to the DOJ.
- Some outlets, such as The Daily Beast and The Nation, frame the story around the political motivations behind the potential revival of charges and the role of Todd Blanche.
- The Epoch Times and Common Dreams focus on Representative Jamie Raskin's investigation into the case.
- The Independent and United Press International emphasize President Trump's public reaction to the dropped charges and his insistence on vandalism.