The Trump administration cancels leases for public golf courses in Washington, D.C., citing investment and future planning disputes.
The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump announced the termination of leases for three historic public golf courses in the nation’s capital: Rock Creek, Langston, and East Potomac. East Potomac, notably located within sight of the Washington Monument, offers golfers an exceptional view of the surrounding landscape. This decision to cancel the leases reflects a broader pattern of the President prioritizing his brand and vision over the city’s infrastructure.
National Links Trust Invested Millions in Renovation
The National Links Trust (NLT) has managed these three courses as a nonprofit organization for about five years, investing approximately $8.5 million in renovations. They hired golf architects Gil Hanse, Tom Doak, and Beau Welling to oversee improvements, who offered their expertise pro bono. Investments have doubled the number of rounds played and revenue generated during their tenure.
In mid-December 2025, Trump threatened to terminate the leases, accusing the NLT of violating lease terms—a claim the NLT denies, expressing surprise at the administration’s threats. Earlier, debris from the White House’s demolished East Wing was dumped on East Potomac grounds by the government.
Trump Administration Enforces Termination of 50-Year Leases
On Wednesday, the administration followed through, ending the 50-year agreements, citing unmet investment obligations and contract breaches by the NLT. The courses predominantly sit on land managed by the National Park Service, part of the Department of the Interior.
The NLT expressed deep dismay, stating it has fulfilled all contractual responsibilities to ensure a sustainable future for public golf in Washington, D.C. They fundamentally disagree with the government’s claims of violations. The Interior Department responded proudly, affirming their commitment to serving the American people with aligned partners.
East Potomac at the Center of Trump’s Golf Vision
East Potomac has become a focal point of the President’s plans. With stunning views of the Washington Monument and Potomac River, the site is seen as a potential model for nationwide democratization of golf. According to sources familiar with government intentions, Trump aims to transform East Potomac into a championship course capable of hosting professional tournaments, possibly including the Ryder Cup. However, the next available Ryder Cup slot is not until 2041, with the 2037 event scheduled at Congressional Golf Club nearby. Trump reportedly plans to replace the volunteer architects with Tom Fazio, a longtime professional associate.
In December, the President promised local Washington residents continued affordable access to a Trump-designed course—a promise at odds with the high-cost reputation of his dozen other private golf properties worldwide.