Trump criticises Washington’s expected mayor while unveiling new development plans

US President Donald Trump sharply criticised Washington's likely next mayor on Sunday while also outlining a series of projects that he said would transform the nation's capital.

US President Donald Trump sharply criticised Washington’s likely next mayor on Sunday while also outlining a series of projects that he said would transform the nation’s capital. In a series of posts on his social media platform, Trump questioned the political views of Democratic mayoral candidate Janeese Lewis George and promoted plans to renovate public spaces, including a historic golf course.

Lewis George recently secured victory in the Democratic primary for mayor, placing her in a strong position ahead of November’s election in a city where Democratic candidates have traditionally enjoyed overwhelming support. Trump said he plans to meet with her but accused her of holding political views that would harm the capital. He described her as a communist, although Lewis George identifies herself as a democratic socialist.

The president has increasingly used the term communist to criticise political opponents in recent months. He has also applied the label to several other Democratic politicians who have gained support from progressive voters. His latest remarks continue a pattern of using strong language against political rivals as national political divisions remain intense.

In a separate post, Trump highlighted what he described as his efforts to improve Washington’s appearance. He pointed to restoration work at the Reflecting Pool near the Lincoln Memorial, saying it had been resurfaced with a special blue coating. However, the project has faced criticism after parts of the coating reportedly began peeling away and algae once again affected the water.

Trump repeated earlier claims that vandalism by political opponents had damaged the site. While he did not provide evidence to support the allegations, the National Park Service has confirmed that several people were arrested in connection with vandalism at the location. According to Trump, repair work on the Reflecting Pool will begin after Independence Day celebrations in early July.

The president also announced plans to redevelop East Potomac Golf Links, a public golf course located on an island in the Potomac River. After visiting the site on Sunday, Trump described the course as outdated and in poor condition. He said the area has enormous potential because of its location and views of Washington’s famous monuments.

Trump stated that he wants to transform the golf course into one of the world’s finest sporting venues. He said the upgraded facility could eventually host prestigious international tournaments, including the US Open. The proposal is part of his broader vision to reshape parts of the capital through major construction and redevelopment projects.

Since returning to office, Trump has introduced several ambitious plans aimed at leaving a lasting mark on Washington’s landscape. These include proposals for a large ballroom at the White House and the construction of a major monument near Arlington National Cemetery. Supporters argue the projects will modernise the city and strengthen its national image, while critics have questioned both the priorities and the costs involved.

Trump has also linked his development plans to his broader efforts to improve public safety in Washington. He recently credited the deployment of National Guard troops with making the city safer and more attractive, although his claims have been debated by political opponents and local officials.

As Washington prepares for its mayoral election later this year, the president’s comments have added another political dispute to an already heated campaign. At the same time, his proposed construction projects are expected to generate further debate over the future appearance and development of the US capital.