The Trump administration cancels 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 public golf courses in the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C. These include the historically significant Rock Creek, Langston, and East Potomac golf courses located within the city. The East Potomac course, in particular, is prominently situated with a clear view of the Washington Monument, offering players outstanding scenery. This decision to end the leases reflects the president’s pattern of prioritizing his brand and vision over the city’s infrastructure.
National Links Trust Invested Millions in Renovation and Modernization
The National Links Trust (NLT), a nonprofit organization, has managed these three courses for about five years and reportedly invested $8.5 million in their restoration. They presented an extensive renovation plan and enlisted golf architects Gil Hanse, Tom Doak, and Beau Welling to oversee the projects, with the architects volunteering their expertise. These investments have doubled both the number of rounds played and the revenue generated during NLT’s management period.
Already by mid-December 2025, Trump threatened to terminate the NLT’s leases, alleging contract violations by the nonprofit. The NLT denied any knowledge of such breaches and expressed surprise at the administration’s threats. Additionally, in October, the administration dumped debris from the demolished White House East Wing onto the East Potomac grounds.
Trump Administration Enforces Termination of 50-Year Lease Agreements
On Wednesday, the administration enacted its threat, ending the 50-year lease agreements with the NLT, accusing them of failing to meet required investments and contract terms. The golf courses primarily sit on National Park Service land, a department under the U.S. Interior Ministry.
The National Links Trust released a statement expressing deep disappointment with the government’s decision, emphasizing that since taking responsibility five years ago, they have fulfilled all contractual obligations to ensure the public golf future in Washington, D.C. The NLT strongly disagreed with the government’s claims of contract violations. The Interior Ministry responded that the Trump administration is proud to fulfill its duties for the American people and collaborate with partners sharing the same goals.
East Potomac Focus of Trump’s Golf Vision
East Potomac has captured the president’s interest due to its stunning views of the Washington Monument and Potomac River. The site’s renovation is considered a potential model for democratizing golf nationwide. According to three sources familiar with the administration’s plans, Trump intends to transform East Potomac into a championship course capable of hosting professional tournaments, including possibly the Ryder Cup. However, the next available Ryder Cup slot is in 2041, with the 2037 event already scheduled for Congressional Golf Club near the capital. Trump’s vision reportedly involves replacing the three volunteer architects with Tom Fazio, a longtime associate of the president.
In December, the president promised that Washington, D.C. residents would continue to enjoy reduced fees at a Trump-designed course on the site, though this promise contrasts with Trump’s twelve privately operated golf courses worldwide, known for their high prices.