The Trump administration cancels leases of three public golf courses in Washington, D.C., citing investments and future plans.
The administration of US President Donald Trump has terminated the lease agreements for three historic public golf courses in the nation’s capital: Rock Creek, Langston, and East Potomac, located within the city. East Potomac, in particular, is prominently located with views of the Washington Monument, offering players stunning scenery. This move reflects the president’s broader pattern of prioritizing his brand and vision over the city’s public infrastructure.
NLT Invested Millions in Renovation and Modernization
The National Links Trust (NLT), a nonprofit organization managing these courses for about five years, claims to have invested $8.5 million into renovations. They engaged renowned golf architects Gil Hanse, Tom Doak, and Beau Welling to lead the projects, who have provided their expertise pro bono. These investments have doubled both the number of rounds played and revenue during the operational period.
In mid-December 2025, Donald Trump threatened to terminate the leases, alleging the NLT breached contractual agreements. The NLT denied any knowledge of violations and expressed surprise over the government’s threats. Earlier in October, debris from the demolished East Wing of the White House was reportedly dumped on the East Potomac grounds.
Trump Administration Executes Cancellation of 50-Year Leases
On Wednesday, the US government followed through on its threat by ending the 50-year lease agreements, citing the NLT’s failure to fulfill required investments and comply with lease terms. The courses are mainly situated on National Park Service lands, an Interior Department agency.
The NLT expressed deep disappointment over the decision, emphasizing their commitment to providing a strong public golf future in Washington, D.C., and disputing claims of contract breaches. The Interior Department responded by stating the administration takes pride in fulfilling its duties for the American people alongside partners who share its goals.
East Potomac at the Center of Trump’s Golf Vision
East Potomac has become the focus of the president’s interest. With its impressive views of the Washington Monument and Potomac River, its renovation is planned as a model for democratizing golf nationwide. Sources familiar with the administration’s plans indicate Trump intends to transform East Potomac into a championship course capable of hosting professional tournaments, potentially including the Ryder Cup. Although the next available Ryder Cup date is 2041, after the 2037 event at Congressional Golf Club near Washington, Trump plans to replace the three volunteer architects with Tom Fazio, who has longstanding professional ties to the president.
In December, President Trump promised that Washington, D.C. residents would still enjoy discounted play on a Trump-designed course, a commitment that contrasts with the elite pricing typical at his twelve privately operated golf resorts worldwide.