By Sohaib Shams
President Donald Trump spent the final days before the 2026 U.S. midterm elections emphasizing the renovation of the Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool, issuing a declaration on space freedom, and attacking Fox News as Democrats secured key victories.
Reflecting Pool Press Conference
On November 2, 2026, Trump held a press conference at the reflecting pool in Washington, D.C., highlighting a troubled $14 million renovation. He displayed a photo of algae-covered water, blaming the Biden administration for the "filth" and claiming the algae was "brutal." The project had already drawn ridicule after Trump's pledge to turn the water "American flag blue" resulted in a green algae bloom. The Wall Street Journal reported that Trump viewed the "beautification of Washington" as a top legacy despite aides urging focus on other issues.
Space Proclamation and Anti-Communism Week
On election day, Trump published an "American declaration of freedom in space," stating that the solar system and outer space beyond Earth are "the province of all humans." He also declared the week "Anti-Communism Week" in honor of "the victims of socialism and communism," though it was unclear how the White House would mark the occasion.
Fox News Appearance and Israel Aid Announcement
As polls opened, Trump called into Fox News and announced he would end military aid to Israel at year's end, citing the $4 billion annual figure. He said the move aligned with voter sentiment, referencing a Quinnipiac poll showing nearly half of Americans believed the U.S. was too supportive of Israel. Trump also criticized Michigan Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed for using the aid figure as a "signal of unfairness."
Election Results and Trump's Reaction
As results showed major Democratic wins in Georgia, New Hampshire, and North Carolina, Trump lashed out at Fox News on Truth Social, calling its poll "insulting" and claiming its ratings were down 27%. He then posted a statement denying responsibility: "I wasn't on the Ballot and if I was, we would have won IN A LANDSLIDE!"
