Donald Trump issues new threat on National Mall vandalism

Donald Trump issued a new threat regarding National Mall vandalism, linking the “8647” marking to broader damage reported near the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. Trump referenced “8647,” which appeared on June 11 on the National Mall lawn after authorities responded to reports of numbers etched into browned grass and opened an investigation. He said the reflecting pool problems began shortly after an early June reopening tied to a renovation costing more than $14 million, after which algae blooms and peeling blue paint surfaced within days. The report states officials are investigating the vandalism and making arrests connected to activity around the pool. On Truth Social, Trump warned federal authorities would enforce strict penalties, citing a 10-year prison sentence for destruction or attempted destruction, as Newsweek sought comment from the White House.