WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump criticized U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro on Monday for her decision to drop charges against a former Olympian accused of vandalizing the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. Trump said Pirro, a former Fox News host and his ally, “choked” by blaming the damage on poor construction rather than vandalism.
Questions About Pirro’s Future
During an Oval Office event, Trump avoided questions about whether he would dismiss Pirro, whom he selected as a federal prosecutor in Washington, D.C. However, he did express disappointment with her assessment of the Reflecting Pool damage. Trump suggested criticism from the judge in the case led Pirro to falter. He remarked, “Instead of pursuing those responsible, the judge targeted Pirro and her department, and I think she choked.”
The decision to drop charges against David Hearn posed a setback for the Justice Department. Trump initially disagreed with Pirro on social media, expressing his continued frustration later. He reiterated his belief in vandalism as the cause of the issues with the Reflecting Pool project.
Pirro’s White House Visit
Jeanine Pirro has not publicly responded to Trump’s criticisms. Nevertheless, she was seen visiting the White House on Monday evening. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, who supports Trump’s view that vandalism caused the damage, was also present.
David Hearn stated he was on a bike ride when a park worker instructed him to stop examining the pool’s damaged coating. Republican Senator John Kennedy highlighted the importance of substantiating allegations in federal court.
Declined Charges and Contractor Issues
Three others faced similar charges related to the Reflecting Pool and were also found not guilty. These charges involved property destruction valued under $1,000.
Trump distanced himself from the pool refurbishment efforts, which he previously praised as an important enhancement to Washington, D.C. Although he had spoken about consulting with firms for the project, he claimed unfamiliarity with the chosen contractor, Virginia-based Atlantic Industrial Coatings, who received a $14.7 million contract without competition.
Despite previously praising the contractor’s work, Trump suggested dissatisfaction and noted that the project was rushed for Independence Day. Crews have now drained the Reflecting Pool for additional repairs, with no set timeline or cost disclosed by the administration. He anticipated the pool would be operational within two weeks.
Associated Press writers Matthew Daly and Mary Clare Jalonick contributed to this report.