According to a New York Times report, internal White House and National Park Service documents challenge President Donald Trump's claims that vandals damaged the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool.

The pool underwent a multimillion-dollar renovation, including painting its bottom with 'American flag blue' paint as directed by Trump ahead of the U.S.250th independence anniversary celebrations.

However, shortly after completion, videos showed the blue paint peeling and green algae overtaking the structure, drawing criticism and becoming a symbol of alleged administrative incompetence.

Documents obtained by the NYT indicate that workers identified issues like foam cuts in expansion joints, but these were unrelated to the peeling paint or algae growth.Officials had been aware of deteriorating conditions yet publicly maintained the pool was in pristine condition.Trump has repeatedly blamed 'vandals' using knives or box cutters for the damage.Repairs may extend beyond July 4, missing the president's desired timeline.

The project, which exceeded initial cost estimates significantly, highlights ongoing tensions between the administration's narrative and documented evidence from government workers.This incident has fueled political debate about accountability in federal projects and the handling of national landmarks.