The Trump administration terminates lease agreements of Washington D.C.’s public golf courses amid disputes over investments and future plans.
The government of US President Donald Trump announced the termination of lease agreements for three historic public golf courses in Washington, D.C.: Rock Creek, Langston, and East Potomac. Especially notable is East Potomac Golf Course, located prominently near the Washington Monument, offering players stunning views of the city’s landscape. This move reflects the president’s trend of prioritizing his brand and vision over the city’s infrastructure.
NLT Invests Millions in Renovation and Modernization
The National Links Trust (NLT), a nonprofit managing these courses for about five years, claims to have invested $8.5 million into refurbishment. They engaged golf architects Gil Hanse, Tom Doak, and Beau Welling to lead renovations, who volunteered their expertise. The improvements have doubled both rounds played and revenue during their tenure.
Already in mid-December 2025, Donald Trump threatened to terminate NLT’s leases, accusing the organization of contract violations, which NLT denies, expressing surprise over the government’s claims. In October, the government controversially dumped demolition debris from the White House’s East Wing on East Potomac grounds.
Trump Administration Enforces Termination of 50-Year Leases
On Wednesday, the administration followed through, ending the 50-year leases citing unmet investment obligations and contract breaches. These courses are primarily on National Park Service land under the Department of the Interior.
NLT expressed deep regret over the decision, emphasizing they fulfilled obligations to secure a bright future for public golf in Washington, D.C. They dispute the government’s claims of violations. The Interior Department stated the administration is proud to act in the public’s interest alongside aligned partners.
East Potomac at the Center of Trump’s Golf Vision
East Potomac, with its breathtaking views of the Washington Monument and Potomac River, is a key focus. The site is seen as a potential model for democratizing golf nationwide. However, sources say Trump plans to transform it into a championship-level course capable of hosting professional events, possibly including the Ryder Cup. The next available Ryder Cup slot is 2041, after the 2037 event at Congressional Golf Club near the capital. Trump intends to replace volunteer architects with Tom Fazio, who has longstanding professional ties to him.
In December, Trump promised that Washington residents would continue enjoying discounted play on a Trump-designed course, a promise at odds with his dozen private courses, among the priciest globally.