Trump details White House repairs in final speech before midterms

President Donald Trump used his final major address before Tuesday's midterm elections to detail renovations in Washington, D.C. The 54-minute speech focused on paint, plumbing, and landscaping rather than traditional policy issues. The White House framed the remarks as a final appeal to voters.

The president spoke from in front of the marble statue of Abraham Lincoln. He discussed the recent reopening of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. He joked about renaming the pool after himself. He also covered new sod, the White House helipad, and other capital projects. He said he became personally involved in these works over the past few months.

The focus on construction came as nonpartisan analysts favored Democrats to take control of the House of Representatives. They viewed the Senate race as competitive. A Reuters/Ipsos poll showed Trump's approval rating at 32 percent, near the lowest level of his career. Voters cited the cost of living as their primary concern. Energy prices have risen 20 percent year over year following the war with Iran.

Many Republican strategists privately urged Trump to focus on household economic worries. His campaign tour included 28 rallies in 19 states since October 1. Those stops featured long discussions about a Potomac River golf course and the Kennedy Center. On Monday, Trump acknowledged the difficulty of winning midterms while in office. He said Republicans had made a strong effort.

The Reflecting Pool renovation cost more than $16 million. The project spans 2,000 feet. Its opening was delayed after paint peeled and algae turned the water green. The administration blamed vandalism for the issues. Prosecutors later dropped charges against a suspected vandal, and a judge dismissed the case.

During the broadcast, Trump displayed photos of the landmark. He explained the new bubblers, pipework, and algae controls. He praised the reflective quality of the fresh paint in sunlight. He also discussed alleged vandalism without presenting evidence.

Democratic control of Congress would allow opponents to launch investigations into Trump and his cabinet. Many renovation projects proceeded without congressional approval and have faced legal challenges. Before ending, Trump mentioned plans for a triumphal arch near Arlington National Cemetery and an overhaul of East Potomac Golf Links.