The Trump administration terminates lease agreements for public golf courses in Washington D.C., citing investments and future plans.
The government of U.S. President Donald Trump announced the termination of lease agreements for three historic public golf courses in the capital Washington, D.C.: Rock Creek, Langston, and East Potomac, the latter prominently located within sight of the Washington Monument and offering players stunning views of the surroundings. This move reflects the president’s pattern of prioritizing his brand and vision over the city’s infrastructure.
Millions Invested by National Links Trust in Renovation and Modernization
The National Links Trust (NLT), a nonprofit organization operating these courses for about five years, has reportedly invested $8.5 million in their refurbishment. The NLT engaged golf architects Gil Hanse, Tom Doak, and Beau Welling to lead renovations, with the architects contributing their expertise pro bono. These investments have doubled both rounds played and revenue during the operating period.
In mid-December 2025, Donald Trump threatened the NLT with lease termination, alleging breaches of contract, although the NLT denied any knowledge of such violations and expressed confusion over the government’s threats. Notably, in October, debris from the White House’s demolished East Wing was dumped on the East Potomac site.
Trump Administration Enforces Termination of 50-Year Lease Agreements
On Wednesday, the U.S. government followed through on this threat, ending the 50-year lease agreements with the NLT due to unmet investment requirements and contract breaches. These golf courses lie mainly on National Park Service land, part of the Department of the Interior.
The NLT expressed deep disappointment, stating they had fulfilled all contractual obligations to secure a promising future for public golf in Washington, D.C. They strongly disagree with the government’s assertion of contract violations. The Interior Department responded that the Trump administration takes pride in fulfilling its duties and collaborating with partners who share its goals.
East Potomac at the Center of Trump’s Golf Vision
East Potomac has become central to the president’s interests. With breathtaking views of the Washington Monument and Potomac River, the course’s renovation is seen as a model for democratizing golf nationwide. 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. The next available Ryder Cup slot is in 2041, with the 2037 event already scheduled at Congressional Golf Club near the capital. Trump’s vision includes replacing the three volunteer architects with Tom Fazio, who has longstanding professional ties to the president.
In December, President Trump promised Washington, D.C. residents discounted access to a redesigned course, though this contrasts with his twelve privately operated courses worldwide that rank among the most expensive in the industry.