The Trump administration terminates leases of public golf courses in Washington, D.C., citing investment and future plan disputes.
The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump announced the termination of lease agreements for three historic public golf courses in the nation’s capital: Rock Creek, Langston, and East Potomac. Notably, East Potomac Golf Course is prominently located within view of the Washington Monument, offering players a stunning landscape perspective. This decision reflects the president’s broader pattern of prioritizing his brand and vision over urban infrastructure in Washington, D.C.
National Links Trust Invested Millions in Renovation and Modernization
The National Links Trust (NLT), a nonprofit organization, has operated these three golf courses for approximately five years and has reportedly invested $8.5 million in facility renovations. The NLT commissioned golf architects Gil Hanse, Tom Doak, and Beau Welling to oversee the renovations, with the architects volunteering their expertise. Investments to date have doubled both rounds played and revenues during operation.
In mid-December 2025, Donald Trump threatened to terminate the NLT’s lease agreements, alleging breaches of contract by the NLT. The NLT denied knowledge of any such violations and expressed concern over the government’s threats. In October, the government controversially deposited debris from the demolished East Wing of the White House onto the East Potomac site.
Trump Administration Enforces Termination of 50-Year Lease Agreements
On Wednesday, the administration made good on its threat, terminating the 50-year lease contracts with the NLT, citing insufficient investments and failure to meet certain contractual obligations. These golf courses are predominantly located on National Park Service land, an Interior Department agency.
The NLT expressed deep disappointment over the decision, stating it had fulfilled all contractual duties to ensure a bright future for public golf in Washington, D.C. The organization also strongly disagreed with the government’s claim of contract breaches. The Interior Department responded that the Trump administration takes pride in serving the American public and collaborating with partners sharing this goal.
East Potomac at the Center of Trump’s Golf Vision
East Potomac has become a focal point for President Trump’s vision. With its breathtaking views of the Washington Monument and Potomac River, the renovation is considered a potential model for nationwide golf democratization. However, according to sources familiar with the administration’s plans, Trump intends to transform East Potomac into a championship course capable of hosting professional tournaments, potentially including the Ryder Cup, though the next open Ryder Cup slot is in 2041 after the 2037 event at Congressional Golf Club near D.C. Trump’s plan also involves replacing the volunteer architects with Tom Fazio, who has longstanding professional ties to the president.
In December, President Trump promised that Washington, D.C. residents would continue to enjoy discounted play on a Trump-designed course, a claim that contrasts with his twelve privately operated golf courses worldwide, which rank among the most expensive in the industry.