The Trump administration cancels leases of Washington, D.C.’s public golf courses, citing investment and future plans concerns.
The administration of US President Donald Trump announced the termination of lease contracts for the three public golf courses in the nation’s capital Washington, D.C. The courses in question are the historically significant Rock Creek, Langston, and East Potomac Golf Courses located within the city. East Potomac, notably, lies prominently in view of the Washington Monument, offering players excellent scenic views.
NLT Invested Millions in Renovation and Modernization
The National Links Trust (NLT) has operated these three courses for about five years as a nonprofit organization, claiming to have invested $8.5 million in their rehabilitation. A comprehensive renovation plan was submitted, with golf architects Gil Hanse, Tom Doak, and Beau Welling appointed to oversee the renovations, offering their expertise pro bono. These investments have reportedly doubled both rounds played and revenue during the period.
In mid-December 2025, President Trump threatened to terminate these leases, accusing NLT of breaching lease agreements. The NLT denied knowledge of any violations and expressed surprise at the government’s threats. Back in October, the government controversially dumped construction debris from the White House’s East Wing demolition on the East Potomac site.
Trump Administration Enforces Termination of 50-Year Leases
On Wednesday, the US government followed through, ending the 50-year lease agreements with the NLT, claiming insufficient investment and contractual non-compliance. These golf properties largely sit on National Park Service lands under the Department of the Interior.
The NLT expressed deep disappointment over the decision, emphasizing their fulfillment of contractual duties to secure a viable public golfing future in Washington, D.C. They fundamentally disagreed with the government’s claims of lease violations. The Interior Department responded that the Trump administration is committed to serving the American public and collaborating with partners sharing that goal.
East Potomac at the Center of Trump’s Golf Vision
East Potomac has become pivotal in the president’s plans. With stunning views of the Washington Monument and Potomac River, its renovation is seen as a model for making golf more accessible nationwide. Sources familiar with government intentions reveal Trump plans to convert East Potomac into a championship-level course capable of hosting professional tournaments, potentially including the Ryder Cup—though the next available Ryder Cup date is 2041, with the 2037 event set for Congressional Golf Club near D.C. Trump intends to replace the three volunteer architects with Tom Fazio, who has longstanding professional ties to the president.
In December, President Trump assured that Washington, D.C. residents would continue to enjoy discounted play at the redesigned course. However, this promise contrasts with Trump’s network of twelve privately operated courses worldwide, known for their high fees.