Chris Hayes highlighted the deteriorating state of the Reflecting Pool, criticizing President Trump's handling of the situation and the associated corruption.
On Friday, Chris Hayes, host of MS NOW, referred to the green Reflecting Pool in Washington as a significant visual representation of President Donald Trump’s administration. He described the pool as 'the most visually arresting metaphor' for the current state of affairs in the capital.
Despite a $14 million investment aimed at cleaning the Reflecting Pool, Hayes expressed concern over its current condition, labeling it a 'leaky, peeling, algae-infested mess' that continues to deteriorate. He remarked that the situation is 'getting worse by the day.'
President Trump previously promised to turn the green water, which he attributed to former President Barack Obama, into a tranquil blue pool that would reflect the sky and the iconic DC landmarks surrounding it. He made these claims with visual aids to emphasize his vision.
Contrary to Trump’s assertions, the pool appears to be in a worse state than prior to the cleaning efforts. The 'American flag blue' paint that was applied to the bottom of the pool is now peeling off in large chunks, with some visitors even taking pieces as souvenirs.
Hayes showcased footage of tourists at the Reflecting Pool offering their opinions on its poor condition, with one individual describing it as a 'national embarrassment.'
The government's response to the situation has also drawn criticism. Hayes pointed out the disconnect between reality and official statements, quoting a Department of the Interior assertion that the 'Reflecting Pool water is crystal clear.' He dismissed this claim as 'obviously not true.'
Hayes conducted an investigation into the contractors involved in the pool's maintenance, uncovering what he referred to as 'an old-fashioned corruption angle.' He noted that two no-bid contracts were awarded for the work, one of which went to John Cafaro, a Trump donor and neighbor at Mar-a-Lago.
He further emphasized Trump's hands-on involvement in beautification projects, suggesting that it is reasonable to believe he had a similar level of control over the Reflecting Pool project. Hayes remarked, 'He probably micromanages this just like he’s done with the destruction of the East Wing for his ballroom and his UFC birthday bash.'
Concluding his critique, Hayes characterized the Reflecting Pool endeavor as yet another example of a 'corrupt, incompetent, expensive and embarrassing mess' that Trump is attempting to conceal.
