Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool filling up after major makeover — Trump’s ‘American Flag Blue’

Testing is underway at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool after renovations were completed, which is expected to be filled with water in the coming days, according to the Trump administration. Trump noted the work to paint the shallow basin a deep shade, which he calls “American flag blue,” was completed on Wednesday. The administration said in a court filing it’s set to be filled with water no later than Sunday. Trump announced the project in April, inspired by a friend’s complaint. The cost is estimated at $1.5 million to $2 million, but records show at least $14.8 million worth of contracts has been awarded for the project. Critics argue the Republican president is focusing too much on personal projects. A nonprofit filed a lawsuit to stop work at the “dark grey” pool, claiming the new paint color suggested a “theme park.” The pool was built in the 1920s and is an iconic Washington site. (Video: AP) Washington - 4 June 2026 ------------------------------------- Follow Scripps News on other platforms— Join our newsletter at https://bit.ly/2q1tepr Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/scrippsnews/ Follow us on X: https://x.com/scrippsnews Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scrippsnews/ Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scrippsnews