The Trump administration terminates leases of public golf courses in Washington D.C. over investments and future plans.
The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump announced the termination of the lease agreements for three public golf courses in the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C. These include the historically significant Rock Creek, Langston, and East Potomac courses located within the city. East Potomac golf course, in particular, is prominently situated within sight of the Washington Monument, offering players an excellent view of the surrounding landscape. This lease termination reflects the president’s general pattern of prioritizing his brand and vision over the urban infrastructure in the capital.
Millions Invested by National Links Trust in Renovation and Modernization
The National Links Trust (NLT) has operated the three golf courses for about five years as a non-profit organization, investing approximately 8.5 million USD in renovations. A comprehensive renovation plan was submitted, with golf architects Gil Hanse, Tom Doak, and Beau Welling overseeing the projects, offering their expertise free of charge. These investments doubled both rounds played and revenues during their tenure.
Already in mid-December 2025, Donald Trump had threatened to terminate the NLT’s leases, alleging breaches of contract. The NLT denied any knowledge of such violations and expressed concern over the government’s threats. Earlier, in October, debris from the demolished East Wing of the White House was dumped at the East Potomac site.
Trump Administration Enforces Termination of 50-Year Leases
On Wednesday, the U.S. government followed through, ending the 50-year leases with NLT, claiming insufficient investments and contractual breaches. The golf courses primarily lie on National Park Service land, a Department of the Interior agency.
The NLT expressed deep disappointment over the decision, affirming that they have always fulfilled contractual obligations to secure the best future for public golf in Washington, D.C. They disagreed fundamentally with the government’s claims of lease violations. The Interior Department responded that the Trump administration is proud to serve the American people and work with partners aligned with their goals.
East Potomac at the Center of Trump’s Golf Vision
East Potomac has become a focal point for the president’s vision, offering stunning views of the Washington Monument and Potomac River. The site is considered a potential model for democratizing golf nationwide. According to three sources familiar with the administration’s plans, Trump aims to transform East Potomac into a championship course capable of hosting professional tournaments, possibly including the Ryder Cup, although the next open Ryder Cup date is in 2041 and 2037 is already scheduled at Congressional Golf Club near D.C. Trump’s vision also includes replacing the three volunteer architects with Tom Fazio, who has longstanding professional ties to the president.
In December, President Trump promised that D.C. residents would continue to have discounted access to a Trump-designed course. However, this pledge contrasts with Trump’s twelve privately owned courses, known globally as some of the most expensive in the industry.