The Trump administration ends leases of public golf courses in Washington, D.C., citing investment issues and future plans.
The government of U.S. President Donald Trump has terminated the leases of three public golf courses in the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C. These include the historically significant courses Rock Creek, Langston, and East Potomac, located within the city. Notably, East Potomac offers golfers a prominent view of the Washington Monument and surrounding landscape. This decision to end the leases reflects the president’s 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), a nonprofit organization managing the three courses for about five years, claims to have invested $8.5 million into renovating the facilities. They presented an extensive renovation plan and commissioned golf architects Gil Hanse, Tom Doak, and Beau Welling to lead the course restorations, who contributed their expertise pro bono. These investments have doubled rounds played and revenue during their tenure.
By mid-December 2025, Donald Trump had already threatened to terminate the NLT’s leases, alleging breaches of the lease agreement. The NLT denied knowledge of any violations and expressed surprise at the government’s threats. Notably, in October, the government dumped construction debris from the demolished East Wing of the White House onto the East Potomac grounds.
Trump Administration Enforces Termination of 50-Year Leases
On Wednesday, the U.S. government acted on its threat and ended the 50-year leases with NLT, citing failure to meet required investments and lease terms. These golf courses sit mostly on National Park Service lands, overseen by the Department of the Interior.
The NLT expressed deep dismay over the administration’s decision, emphasizing its commitment to fulfilling contractual obligations to ensure the best future for public golf in Washington, D.C. They also disputed the government’s claim of lease violations. The Interior Department responded that the Trump administration is proud to fulfill duties to the American public and collaborate with partners sharing the same goals.
East Potomac at the Heart of Trump’s Golf Vision
East Potomac has become a focal point of the president’s interests. With its stunning views of the Washington Monument and Potomac River, its renovation is viewed as a potential model for national democratization of golf. However, sources familiar with the administration’s plans indicate that Trump intends to convert East Potomac into a championship venue capable of hosting professional tournaments, including possibly the Ryder Cup. The next available Ryder Cup slot is in 2041, with 2037 already booked at the 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, the president promised that Washington, D.C. residents could continue to play at a discounted rate on a Trump-designed course, a claim that contrasts with the high prices typically charged at his twelve privately operated golf courses worldwide.