The key facts

  • The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool reopened after repairs: pipes replaced, surface renewed
  • Trump called the November 3 elections 'the most important midterms of our lifetime' and repeated his promise to pay every adult $5,000 in the event of victory
  • Plans announced for a 'Triumphal Arc Military Complex' with 'tremendous drone capabilities' near the Arlington Memorial Bridge

Pool opening on the eve of the elections

US President Donald Trump on Monday officially reopened the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool in Washington after several months of repairs, Anadolu reports. The event took place on the eve of the midterm elections on November 3, and Trump used it to showcase his administration's achievements and criticize the Democrats. 'I am pleased to announce the official opening of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool,' he said at the site by the pool.

What exactly was done

According to Trump, the pool, built in 1920–1923, suffered from leaks, algae, and vandalism. During the renovation, the pipes were replaced and the pool's surface was renewed; the president emphasized that his administration completed the work at a significantly lower cost. Specific expenditure figures were not given in his speech.

Political context and other statements

Addressing Tuesday's vote, Trump called it 'the most important midterm elections, I believe, of our lifetime' and said that the Democratic Party had put forward 'the most extreme and dangerous slate of candidates in American history.' He also repeated his earlier promise: in the event of victory, 'every adult will receive $5,000,' which, according to him, would have to be spent within the United States. Touching on Iran, the president said: 'We had a war with Iran. We won,' and also stated that the US controls the Strait of Hormuz, that Iran 'wants to make a deal, and it may happen,' and that Tehran had asked the US to stop strikes on its leaders — 'and we will do that.' Separately, Trump announced the construction of a 'Triumphal Arc Military Complex' next to the Arlington Memorial Bridge, which, according to him, 'will have tremendous drone capabilities.' The statements about Iran and the payment promise remain the president's words and are not supported in the publication by independent confirmation.