Peeling paint, the reflecting pool and the case Trump can't let go
Aug 10, 2026 · 8m
Summary
This episode examines the dismissed vandalism charges against David Hearn, a three-time Olympic canoeist, regarding the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. While President Trump insists Hearn caused the damage, prosecutors dropped the case, citing installation errors. Host Scott Detrow interviews Hearn and his lawyer, Norm Eisen, who discuss the absurdity of the situation and the role of the judicial system in clearing Hearn’s name.
Topics discussed
Intro: Trump's obsession with the reflecting pool vandalism case
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Interview begins: David Hearn and lawyer Norm Eisen join Scott Detrow
Hearn's background and the evidence proving no damage occurred
U.S. Attorney Janine Pirro's initial press conference and Hearn's reaction
Hearn on the justice system, democracy, and public support
Credits and promo for Sources and Methods live event
Outro and ads for Thumbtack and Sources and Methods
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