US Attorney General Blanche defends colleague after Trump’s reflecting pool slam

US Attorney General Todd Blanche has defended his colleague Jeanine Pirro, who faced criticism from US President Donald Trump over her handling of a case involving alleged vandalism at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. Blanche stated on NBC’s Meet the Press that he "absolutely supports US Attorney Pirro", along with Trump. The renovation of the Reflecting Pool, which cost around US$14.7 million, was expedited by the Trump administration before the Fourth of July celebrations.

However, shortly after the renovation, an algae bloom emerged and materials at the bottom of the pool began to peel off. Federal authorities subsequently charged former Olympian David Hearn and others with vandalism. Pirro blamed the peeling issues on "flawed" contractor work and accused the Interior Department of providing incomplete information initially.

When Trump suggested Pirro reconsider her decision to drop the case, Blanche said he does not fault Trump for his frustration but emphasized that a witness observed the vandalism, and judging her based on a single case without sufficient proof is not fair. The White House is requesting the Justice Department to investigate potential new charges related to the alleged vandalism at the newly renovated pool.

Blanche said that Pirro is effectively enforcing the law by pursuing anyone involved in the incident. He was confirmed as Trump's attorney general by the US Senate Republicans, despite bipartisan concerns about his independence. Blanche declined to pledge that the Justice Department would operate independently of the White House, but assured that he would act with integrity and without fear or favor.