The Ohio tie to the D.C. reflecting pool debacle: The Wake Up for Tuesday, June 23, 2026

In a surprising twist, a Youngstown businessman with a criminal background and strong Republican connections, including ties to President Trump, landed a $1.7 million no-bid federal contract to restore the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, which had turned a disappointing green from algae. This situation raises questions about the integrity of federal contracting processes and the influence of political connections, especially given the businessman's history. The debacle underscores broader concerns about government transparency and accountability in awarding contracts.