Trump blames vandals for National Mall grass damage

President Donald Trump has repeatedly claimed that vandals are responsible for large swaths of dead grass on the United States — National Mall near the United States — World War II Memorial, in the area where he hosted a July 4 celebration for the nation's 250th anniversary. Trump posted photos on social media, including one on August 16, 2026, showing the damaged turf, and accused vandals of damaging the grass, the United States — World War II Memorial, and the United States — Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. However, turf experts and officials have disputed these claims, noting that the damage is consistent with heavy foot traffic and extreme heat during the July 4 event. The U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia, Jeanine Pirro, concluded that damage to the Reflecting Pool was due to poor construction, not vandalism, a conclusion Trump has rejected. Separately, authorities arrested Melissa L. Farris for vandalizing the United States — World War II Memorial with spray paint, but her case does not involve the grassy area. The dispute has become a political controversy, with Trump criticizing Pirro and continuing to assert vandalism without providing evidence.