President Trump used the reopening of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool as the backdrop for his final midterm campaign speech, blending a celebration of the renovated landmark with a stark warning about the stakes of Tuesday's elections.
Speaking from the Reflecting Pool on Monday, Trump announced its official reopening after months of construction and repairs. He showcased images of the restoration work, calling it a project that should "unite all Americans." The pool had been closed for months due to algae blooms and lining issues that had plagued the initial renovation.
The president joked about renaming the pool the "Trump Reflecting Pool," but quickly added he was kidding. He then spent roughly 20 minutes detailing other beautification efforts in Washington, including fixing fountains, removing graffiti, and cracking down on crime, before turning to the elections.
Trump called the midterms "the most important" in his lifetime, asserting that the Democratic Party had fielded "the most extreme and dangerous slate of candidates in American history." He singled out Michigan Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed, repeating unsubstantiated claims about his ties to the Muslim Brotherhood. He also mentioned Alaska Senate candidate Dan J. Sullivan, who is challenging incumbent GOP Sen. Dan S. Sullivan.
The president touted his administration's achievements, claiming "We've achieved more in less than two years than any administration in American history," and insisted he had kept every promise. He repeated his pledge to give American adults a $5,000 check if Republicans retain control of Congress.
Trump highlighted his extensive rally schedule, describing the events as "full of love," and said, "America is ready to go. They're ready to vote. I hope they're ready to do the right thing." He acknowledged the historical trend of the president's party losing midterms, but said Republicans had given this cycle "a very strong shot."
The speech, which also touched briefly on preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon, came as Trump's Lincoln Memorial rally capped the GOP's final push. The event underscored the president's central role in the campaign, even as the midterms are set to reshape Congress.
Trump's focus on the Reflecting Pool and D.C. improvements seemed aimed at projecting competence and a tangible legacy, while his sharp attacks on Democratic candidates sought to energize the base. The speech blended policy and politics in a way that has become characteristic of his rallies, but with the added symbolism of a national landmark.
As voters head to the polls, the outcome will likely hinge on issues like the economy, healthcare, and immigration, but Trump's closing argument centered on his administration's record and the perceived threat of Democratic control. Whether that message resonates will be known soon.
