The Trump administration cancels leases of public golf courses in Washington D.C., citing investment and future plans.
The administration of US President Donald Trump announced the termination of lease agreements for three historic public golf courses in Washington, D.C.: Rock Creek, Langston, and East Potomac. Notably, East Potomac offers a prominent location with scenic views of the Washington Monument and the surrounding landscape. This decision reflects the president’s pattern of prioritizing his brand and vision over urban infrastructure in the nation’s capital.
NLT Invested Millions in Renovation and Modernization
The National Links Trust (NLT), a nonprofit organization managing these courses for about five years, claims to have invested $8.5 million in renovations. Golf architects Gil Hanse, Tom Doak, and Beau Welling were engaged to oversee improvements, offering their expertise pro bono. These efforts doubled both rounds played and revenue during NLT’s tenure.
In mid-December 2025, Trump threatened to terminate NLT’s leases, alleging breach of contract, which NLT denied. Earlier, debris from the demolished East Wing of the White House was dumped on the East Potomac grounds, adding tension.
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Trump Administration Follows Through on Lease Terminations
On Wednesday, the US government enacted the lease terminations, citing unmet investment requirements and contract terms. The golf courses sit mainly on National Park Service land under the Department of the Interior.
NLT expressed deep disappointment, highlighting their fulfillment of contractual obligations to secure a promising future for public golf in Washington, D.C. The Interior Department responded that the administration is proud to serve the American people and collaborate with partners sharing its goals.
East Potomac and Trump’s Golf Vision
East Potomac has become a focal point in Trump’s golf plans. With its stunning views, it is seen as a model to democratize golf nationwide. Sources suggest Trump aims to transform East Potomac into a championship course capable of hosting professional events, including potentially the Ryder Cup, though the next available Ryder Cup dates are 2037 and 2041 elsewhere. Trump also plans to replace the current volunteer architects with Tom Fazio, a longtime associate.
Despite guarantees last December that D.C. residents would enjoy discounted play on a Trump-designed course, this contrasts with Trump’s twelve privately operated courses worldwide, known among the most expensive.
