Trump spends 54 minutes on plumbing ahead of midterms

President Donald Trump prioritized the condition of Washington’s public spaces over economic policy during his final major speech before Tuesday’s midterm elections. Speaking for 54 minutes on Monday, the president detailed projects involving paint, plumbing, and landscaping while his party faces potential losses in Congress.

Trump stood before the marble statue of Abraham Lincoln to review the restoration of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. He discussed the pool’s new bubblers, pipework, and algae control measures. The president also joked about renaming the landmark after himself. He noted that he had become personally involved in these capital improvements over the past few months.

The timing of the address conflicts with polling data that favors Democrats in the House race. A Reuters/Ipsos poll placed Trump’s public approval at 32%, near the lowest point of his career. Voters cited the cost of living as their top concern. Energy prices rose 20% year over year following the war with Iran, according to the US Consumer Price Index.

Republican strategists reportedly wanted the president to focus on household economic issues. Trump’s campaign tour, which included 28 rallies in 19 states since October 1, often strayed into topics like the Potomac River golf course and the Kennedy Center. On Monday, he acknowledged the difficulty of midterms for sitting presidents and claimed Republicans had made a strong effort.

The Reflecting Pool renovation cost more than $16 million. The pool measures 610 meters. Its opening was delayed after paint peeled and algae turned the water green. The administration defended its use of non-competitive bidding and blamed vandalism. Prosecutors later dropped charges against a suspect after a judge dismissed the case.

During the broadcast, Trump displayed photos of the landmark and praised the reflective quality of the fresh paint in sunlight. He discussed alleged vandalism attempts without presenting evidence. He briefly argued that Democrats were unfit for office and declared that the United States had won the war with Iran, even as talks to end the conflict continued.

Democratic control of Congress would allow opponents to launch investigations into Trump and his cabinet. Many White House and National Mall renovation projects proceeded without congressional approval and face legal challenges. Before ending the speech, Trump outlined plans for a triumphal arch near Arlington National Cemetery and an overhaul of East Potomac Golf Links.