The Trump administration terminates leases of public golf courses in Washington, D.C., citing 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 golf courses located within the city. Notably, the East Potomac course lies prominently in view of the Washington Monument, offering players stunning views of the surrounding landscape. This decision to terminate the leases reflects the president’s general pattern of prioritizing his brand and vision over the urban infrastructure in the capital.
NLT Invested Millions in Renovation and Modernization
The National Links Trust (NLT) has managed these three golf courses as a nonprofit organization for about five years, reportedly investing $8.5 million in renovating the facilities. An extensive renovation plan was presented, with golf architects Gil Hanse, Tom Doak, and Beau Welling appointed to lead the restorations. These architects offered their expertise free of charge. Thanks to the investments made so far in modernization, NLT doubled both the number of played rounds and revenue during its operation.
Already in mid-December 2025, Donald Trump threatened the National Links Trust (NLT) with lease termination, claiming the NLT violated lease agreements. The NLT, however, stated it was unaware of any contract breaches and expressed surprise at the government’s threats. Earlier in October, the government even dumped debris from the demolished East Wing of the White House onto the East Potomac site.
Trump Administration Enforces Termination of 50-Year Leases
On Wednesday, the U.S. government followed through on its threat and terminated the 50-year leases with NLT, citing failure to make required investments and meet certain contractual terms. The courses sit largely on National Park Service land, a Department of the Interior agency.
The National Links Trust expressed deep disappointment over the Trump administration’s decision, stating it had fulfilled all contractual obligations over the past five years to secure a strong future for public golf in Washington, D.C. NLT emphasized its fundamental disagreement with the government’s claim of lease violations. The Interior Department responded that the Trump administration is proud to fulfill its duties for the American people and work with partners sharing the same goals.
East Potomac at the Center of Trump’s Golf Vision
East Potomac has become a focal point of the president’s interests. With its breathtaking view of the Washington Monument and Potomac River, renovations here are seen as a potential model for democratizing golf nationwide. However, according to sources familiar with government plans, Trump aims to transform East Potomac into a championship course capable of hosting professional tournaments, possibly including the Ryder Cup. The next available Ryder Cup date is not until 2041, with the 2037 event already scheduled at Congressional Golf Club near D.C. Trump’s vision reportedly includes replacing the volunteer architects with Tom Fazio, who has long-standing professional ties to the president.
In December, the U.S. president promised that Washington, D.C. residents would still be able to play on a Trump-designed course at discounted rates. This promise