Trump donor’s company got the $1.7 million no bid reflecting pool contract

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Some stories make people stop and say: wait, what?

The controversy around the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool renovation was already getting attention after reports that parts of the project were showing problems shortly after completion, including algae returning and paint issues.

Then another detail started circulating.

A company connected to John Cafaro, a Trump donor and Mar-a-Lago neighbor, was involved in a $1.7 million no-bid contract for a water purification system for the reflecting pool.

Cafaro has a controversial past, including two prior felony convictions: one connected to a bribery case involving former Rep. James Traficant, and another involving an illegal campaign finance loan violation.

That history is why people are asking questions.

How are major public projects awarded?

Why was this contract given without a competitive bidding process?

And would the public view this differently if the project had gone perfectly?

Supporters of the process may argue that contracts can be awarded for practical reasons, experience, or other business considerations.

Critics see a familiar problem: powerful connections, government money, and a lack of transparency creating a situation that naturally invites suspicion.

The bigger issue is not just one person or one project.

It is trust.

When a $14 million public renovation starts having problems, then people learn about a connected contractor with a controversial background receiving a no-bid contract, the public is going to ask questions.

And that is exactly what is happening.