The Trump administration ends leases of public golf courses in Washington, D.C., citing investment issues and future plans.
The administration of US President Donald Trump announced the termination of the lease agreements for three public golf courses in the capital Washington, D.C. These are the historically significant golf courses Rock Creek, Langston, and East Potomac located within the city. East Potomac, in particular, is prominently situated with views of the Washington Monument, offering players an excellent vista of the surrounding landscape. This decision to terminate the leases reflects the president’s general pattern of prioritizing his brand and vision over the city’s infrastructure.
NLT Invested Millions in Renovation and Modernization
The National Links Trust (NLT), a nonprofit organization operating the three courses for about five years, has reportedly invested $8.5 million in renovations. They presented a comprehensive renovation plan and hired golf architects Gil Hanse, Tom Doak, and Beau Welling to lead the projects, who offered their expertise pro bono. Thanks to these investments, the NLT doubled rounds played and revenue during their tenure.
In mid-December 2025, Donald Trump threatened to terminate the leases, claiming that the NLT violated contract terms. The NLT denied any knowledge of violations and expressed surprise at the government’s threats. In October, the administration even dumped rubble from the White House’s demolished East Wing on East Potomac grounds.
Trump Administration Enforces Termination of 50-Year Leases
On Wednesday, the administration acted on its threat, ending the 50-year leases with the NLT for failure to meet investment commitments and contractual terms. The golf courses mostly sit on National Park Service land, part of the Department of the Interior.
The NLT expressed deep disappointment over the decision, stating they met all contractual obligations to secure a bright future for public golf in Washington, D.C. They also strongly disagreed with the government’s claim of contract breaches. The Interior Department responded that the Trump administration is proud to fulfill its duties for the American people and collaborate with partners sharing this goal.
East Potomac at the Center of Trump’s Golf Vision
East Potomac, with its stunning views of the Washington Monument and Potomac River, has attracted presidential interest as a model for democratizing golf nationwide. However, sources familiar with government plans say Trump intends to convert East Potomac into a championship course capable of hosting professional tournaments, including potentially the Ryder Cup. The next available Ryder Cup date is in 2041, with the 2037 event already scheduled at the nearby Congressional Golf Club. Trump’s vision includes replacing the three volunteer architects with Tom Fazio, who has longstanding professional ties to the president.
In December, Trump promised local residents discounted play on a Trump-designed course, but this contrasts with his twelve privately operated golf facilities, known worldwide for high prices.