Interior Secretary Doug Burgum reacted to recent vandalism at the National Mall. This includes significant damage to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. He detailed restoration efforts, increased security, and the arrest of seven individuals involved.

Burgum emphasized that such acts are against the country and will face full legal prosecution. “When people attack the Reflecting Pool, it is like an attack on our country,” Burgum stated, highlighting the monuments’ sacred status.

During an appearance on “Fox & Friends Weekend,” Burgum discussed the damage and the Trump administration’s response. Authorities have arrested seven, issued multiple citations, and filed 18 police reports connected to the vandalism.

These sacred monuments must be protected, and those responsible will be prosecuted to the law’s fullest extent,” Burgum said.

The vandalism included a 350-foot-long gash in the Reflecting Pool’s industrial rubber liner, reportedly cut with a box cutter. Anti-Trump graffiti, such as “8647,” was also found, interpreted by many as a harmful message.

President Donald Trump addressed this, noting the deliberate targeting of the newly restored Reflecting Pool. Trump stated, “They ripped a scar 350 feet long through the Reflecting Pool’s side. These people want to destroy our country.”

Burgum said the vandalism followed a major effort by the Trump administration to restore the nation’s capital ahead of America’s 250th anniversary. Over 50 parks and circles, 48 monuments, 22 fountains, and about 1,700 lights have been repaired throughout the National Mall.

A fence surrounds the Reflecting Pool amid ongoing investigations. This measure aims to protect the site and prepare for upcoming July 4 festivities, which will include fireworks on either side of the monument.