Trump Admits No Reflecting Pool Proof
David Hearn seeks closure after dismissal of Trump's Reflecting Pool vandalism claims.
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Updated Aug 10, 4:51pm ETEvery side, every morning
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The reporting
President Donald Trump acknowledged Sunday there was “no video or proof” of alleged vandalism to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, after previously saying damage to its surface was deliberate sabotage. He also wrote that “some contractor error” occurred because crews were “rushing the job,” while continuing to assert that unidentified vandals caused other damage. U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro moved to dismiss federal charges against former U.S. Olympic canoeist David Hearn and three others, a judge granted the dismissals last week, and Hearn’s attorneys said they are considering legal action.
Analysis & opinion
False vandalism claimMostly Left
The Reflecting Pool damage was not caused by vandalism, and Trump’s allegations against David Hearn had no factual basis. Contractor error, dismissed charges, and Justice Department admissions all undercut the vandalism narrative.
Abuse of powerMostly Left
Trump’s handling of the Reflecting Pool matter crossed from political accusation into an improper use of government power. Pursuing or encouraging punishment of David Hearn on a fabricated basis was an abuse that points to deeper constitutional danger.
Persistent falsehoodMostly Left
Trump kept pushing the vandalism story even after it had been discredited. His continued accusations and harassment show a refusal to abandon a claim prosecutors and his own Justice Department no longer supported.
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