The Trump administration terminates leases of public golf courses in Washington D.C. with disputes over investments and future plans.
The administration of US President Donald Trump has terminated the leases of the three public golf courses in the capital city, Washington, D.C. These include the historically significant courses Rock Creek, Langston, and East Potomac located within the city. East Potomac, in particular, is prominently situated within view of the Washington Monument, offering players a stunning view of the surrounding landscape. This decision to end the leases reflects the president’s ongoing pattern of prioritizing his brand and vision over the city’s infrastructure.
NLT invested millions in renovations and modernization
The National Links Trust (NLT) has operated the three courses for about five years as a nonprofit organization, reportedly investing $8.5 million into renovations. An extensive renovation plan was submitted, and NLT engaged golf architects Gil Hanse, Tom Doak, and Beau Welling to lead the course upgrades, who volunteered their expertise. These investments have doubled both the number of rounds played and the revenue generated during NLT’s management.
In mid-December 2025, Donald Trump threatened to terminate the leases, alleging the NLT violated lease agreements, although the NLT denied any awareness of such violations and expressed confusion over the government’s threats. Earlier in October, the administration controversially dumped demolition debris from the White House East Wing on East Potomac grounds.
Trump administration enforces termination of 50-year leases
On Wednesday, the government followed through, ending the 50-year lease agreements with the NLT, citing unmet investment obligations and breached contract terms. The golf courses primarily sit on National Park Service land, a department within the Interior Ministry.
The National Links Trust expressed deep disappointment over the Trump administration’s decision, emphasizing that they had fulfilled all contractual duties to secure a promising future for public golf in Washington, D.C. They strongly contest the government’s claim of contract breaches. The Interior Ministry responded by stating the administration is proud to serve the American public and work with partners sharing the same goals.
East Potomac central to Trump’s golf vision
East Potomac has become central to the president’s plans. Known for its breathtaking views of the Washington Monument and Potomac River, its renovation is seen as a potential model for democratizing golf nationwide. Sources familiar with the administration’s intentions suggest Trump wants to transform East Potomac into a championship-level course capable of hosting professional tournaments, including possibly the Ryder Cup. However, the next available Ryder Cup slot is in 2041, with the 2037 event already scheduled nearby. The plan includes replacing the three volunteer architects with Tom Fazio, a longtime associate of Trump.
In December, the president promised that Washington residents would still enjoy discounted play on the redesigned course, a claim that seems at odds with Trump’s twelve privately operated courses worldwide, which are among the most expensive in the industry.