Donald Trump faces criticism over governance and handling of facts

President Donald Trump's administration is facing scrutiny over its handling of facts and governance, with Nobel economist Paul Krugman arguing that the government is operating in "bad faith." Krugman suggests that the legal "presumption of regularity"—the assumption that government proceedings are conducted honestly—is being eroded as the administration's word loses credibility in courts.

A recent flashpoint involves the renovation of Washington D.C.'s Reflecting Pool. Following a $14 million refurbishment by a contractor linked to a Trump donor, the pool became filled with algae. While Trump attributed the issue to vandalism, D.C. District Attorney Jeanine Pirro—a former vocal Trump supporter—dropped vandalism charges against David Hearn after determining the pool's condition was caused by construction errors. Trump subsequently criticized Pirro for her decision.