The Trump administration terminates leases of public golf courses in Washington, D.C. Disputes revolve around investments and future plans.
The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump announced it would terminate the leases of three public golf courses in the capital city: Rock Creek, Langston, and East Potomac. These historic courses are located within the city, with East Potomac notably offering players a prime view of the Washington Monument and surrounding landscape. This decision reflects the president’s broader pattern of prioritizing his brand and vision over urban infrastructure in the nation’s capital.
NLT invested millions in renovation and modernization
The National Links Trust (NLT), a nonprofit organization, has managed these courses for about five years and claims to have invested $8.5 million in their rehabilitation. A comprehensive renovation plan was presented, with golf architects Gil Hanse, Tom Doak, and Beau Welling enlisted to oversee the work, offering their expertise pro bono. This investment doubled both the rounds played and revenue during the Trust’s tenure.
Already in mid-December 2025, Donald Trump had threatened NLT with lease termination, alleging breaches of the agreement. The NLT denied knowledge of such breaches and expressed concern over the government’s threats. Earlier in October, debris from the demolished East Wing of the White House was deposited on the East Potomac grounds by the government.
Trump administration enforces termination of 50-year leases
On Wednesday, the U.S. government carried out its threat and canceled the 50-year lease agreements with the NLT, citing insufficient investments and unmet contractual obligations. The courses primarily occupy land controlled by the National Park Service, an Interior Department agency.
The NLT expressed deep disappointment over the decision, stating it had fulfilled all contractual duties to secure the future of public golf in Washington, D.C., since taking responsibility for the courses five years ago. The Trust firmly disagreed with the government’s claim of contractual violations. The Interior Department responded that the administration is proud to serve the American people and collaborate with partners who share its goals.
East Potomac at the center of Trump’s golf vision
East Potomac has attracted particular attention from the president. With its stunning views of the Washington Monument and Potomac River, the site is seen as a potential model for national golf democratization. However, sources familiar with the administration’s plans indicate Trump intends to transform East Potomac into a championship course capable of hosting professional tournaments, possibly including the Ryder Cup. Notably, the next available Ryder Cup date is in 2041, with the 2037 event already scheduled at Congressional Golf Club near D.C. Trump’s plan includes replacing the three volunteer architects with Tom Fazio, a longtime associate of the president.
In December, the president promised that Washington, D.C., residents would continue to enjoy discounted play on a Trump-designed course, a claim that contrasts with Trump’s twelve own golf courses worldwide known for their high prices.