“President Trump’s focus on repair and beautification projects around Washington, D.C., risks backfiring on Republicans ahead of the midterms as the issue of affordability takes center stage across the country.
Just this week, Trump began an unrelated executive order signing and an energy announcement in the Oval Office talking about the completion of repairs of the Reflecting Pool on the National Mall, while touting a number of fountain restorations around the city.
Additionally, the administration announced it will spend $5 million to regild the four gold-plated Arts of War and Arts of Peace equestrian statues near the Lincoln Memorial.
Backers of the projects say the efforts will pay long-term dividends for the District and that it is possible for the administration to focus on the projects and affordability at the same time.”
Julia Manchester and Rachel Frazin report for The Hill June 6, 2026.
