The Trump administration cancels leases of public golf courses in Washington, D.C., citing investment issues and future plans.
The administration of US President Donald Trump announced the cancellation of the lease agreements for three historic public golf courses located in the heart of the nation’s capital: Rock Creek, Langston, and East Potomac. East Potomac Golf Course, notably situated with a prominent view of the Washington Monument, offers players stunning sights of the surrounding landscape. This termination reflects Trump’s pattern of prioritizing his brand and vision over urban infrastructure in Washington, D.C.
NLT’s Multi-Million Dollar Investment in Renovation and Modernization
The National Links Trust (NLT), a nonprofit organization, has managed the three courses for approximately five years and claims to have invested $8.5 million in renovations. Comprehensive renovation plans were submitted, with renowned golf architects Gil Hanse, Tom Doak, and Beau Welling volunteering their expertise to lead the projects. The modernization efforts have doubled both the number of rounds played and revenues during NLT’s tenure.
As early as mid-December 2025, Donald Trump threatened the NLT with lease termination, alleging breaches of agreement. NLT denied any knowledge of these violations and expressed confusion at the government’s warnings. In October prior, demolition debris from the White House’s East Wing was dumped on East Potomac grounds.
Trump Administration Enforces Termination of 50-Year Leases
On Wednesday, the administration followed through, terminating the 50-year lease agreements citing failure to meet required investments and contractual obligations. The golf courses predominantly lie on National Park Service land overseen by the Department of the Interior.
NLT expressed profound disappointment, stating they have consistently fulfilled contractual responsibilities to secure a strong future for public golf in Washington, D.C. They disagreed fundamentally with the government’s accusations of breaches. The Interior Department responded that the administration is proud to work with partners aligned in serving the American people.
East Potomac at the Center of Trump’s Golf Vision
East Potomac has become a focal point for President Trump’s vision, featuring breathtaking views of the Washington Monument and the Potomac River. The site is considered a potential model for democratizing golf nationwide. Sources familiar with the administration’s intentions indicate plans to convert East Potomac into a championship-level course capable of hosting professional tournaments, possibly including the Ryder Cup. However, the next open Ryder Cup slot is not until 2041, with the 2037 event already scheduled at Congressional Golf Club near D.C. Trump’s plan includes replacing the current volunteer architects with Tom Fazio, a longtime associate of the President.
In December, Trump promised that Washington residents would continue to receive discounted play access on any course he designs, a pledge that seems incongruent with the world’s priciest private courses he owns.