Trump highlights renovation projects before midterm elections

President Donald Trump held a press conference at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool in Washington, D.C., on Monday to mark the completion of a renovation project at the site. The event served as the President's final major public appearance ahead of the midterm elections scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2026.

During the 53-minute event, the President displayed photographs of various construction and beautification projects undertaken in the nation's capital. While the administration has focused on initiatives such as a new White House ballroom and a South Lawn helipad, the President emphasized the work done at the Reflecting Pool, which had been closed for more than six months due to issues including algae blooms and a peeling liner.

The renovation of the Reflecting Pool cost $14 million. Although the pool has been refilled, the surrounding area will remain closed to visitors until Nov. 21, 2026. Addressing the work, the President stated that the project should unite Americans and noted that new pipes were installed to address maintenance concerns.

The President's focus on these infrastructure projects comes as voters have identified the cost of living as a primary concern. While the President mentioned that there are many other planned projects for Washington, he did not address economic issues during the presentation. CBS News correspondents Weijia Jiang and Ed O'Keefe provided coverage of the event and the upcoming election races.