The Trump administration ends leases of public golf courses in Washington, D.C. over investment disputes and future plans.
The government of U.S. President Donald Trump has terminated the lease agreements of three public golf courses in the 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 is prominently situated within view of the Washington Monument, offering players outstanding vistas of the surrounding landscape. This decision to cancel the leases reflects the president’s ongoing pattern of prioritizing his brand and vision over the urban infrastructure of the capital.
NLT invested millions in renovation and modernization
The National Links Trust (NLT) has operated the three courses as a nonprofit organization for about five years, reportedly investing $8.5 million to rehabilitate the facilities. A comprehensive renovation plan was presented, with architects Gil Hanse, Tom Doak, and Beau Welling commissioned to lead the course refurbishments. The architects agreed to provide their expertise pro bono. Thanks to these investments, the NLT has doubled both rounds played and revenue during its operation.
Already in mid-December 2025, Donald Trump threatened the NLT with lease termination, alleging violations of the lease agreements. The NLT denied any knowledge of contract breaches and expressed surprise at the government’s threats. Earlier in October, the administration had even dumped debris from the demolished East Wing of the White House onto the East Potomac grounds.
Trump administration enforces cancellation of 50-year leases
On Wednesday, the U.S. government acted on its threat and terminated the 50-year lease agreements with the NLT, citing failure to make required investments and breach of leasing terms. Most of the golf courses sit on land managed by the National Park Service, an Interior Department agency.
The National Links Trust expressed deep dismay over the decision, emphasizing it had fulfilled all contractual obligations since taking over the courses to secure the future of public golf in Washington, D.C. They stressed fundamental disagreement with the government’s claim of lease violations. The Interior Department responded that the administration is proud to serve the American people and collaborate with partners who share the same goals.
East Potomac at the center of Trump’s golf vision
East Potomac has become a focal point of the president’s interest. With breathtaking views of the Washington Monument and Potomac River, its renovation is seen as a potential model for democratizing golf nationwide. However, according to sources familiar with the administration’s plans, Trump intends to convert East Potomac into a championship course capable of hosting professional tournaments, possibly even the Ryder Cup. The next available Ryder Cup dates are 2037 at Congressional Golf Club near D.C. and 2041 afterward. Trump’s vision also includes replacing the volunteer architects with Tom Fazio, a longtime associate of the president.
In December, the president promised that D.C. residents would still be able to play at discounted rates on a Trump-designed course, though this contrasts with Trump’s other 12 private clubs worldwide, known as some of the most expensive in the industry.