The Trump administration cancels leases of public golf courses in Washington, D.C., citing investments and future plans.
The government of U.S. President Donald Trump announced the cancellation of the lease agreements for three public golf courses in the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C. These are the historically significant Rock Creek, Langston, and East Potomac golf courses located within the city. Especially notable is East Potomac, situated prominently within view of the Washington Monument, offering players excellent views of the surrounding landscape. This decision reflects the president’s general pattern of prioritizing his brand and vision over urban infrastructure in the capital.
Millions Invested in Renovation and Modernization by NLT
The National Links Trust (NLT) has operated the three courses as a nonprofit organization for about five years, claiming to have invested $8.5 million in their restoration. A comprehensive renovation plan was presented, with golf architects Gil Hanse, Tom Doak, and Beau Welling commissioned to lead the upgrades, providing their expertise pro bono. These investments have doubled both rounds played and revenue during NLT’s management.
Already in mid-December 2025, Donald Trump threatened NLT with lease termination over alleged contractual breaches, a claim NLT denies, expressing confusion over the government’s threats. In October, debris from the demolished East Wing of the White House was dumped on the East Potomac site by the administration.
Trump Administration Enforces Cancellation of 50-Year Leases
On Wednesday, the U.S. government enacted its threat, terminating the 50-year leases held by NLT for failing to fulfill required investments and certain lease provisions. These golf courses are primarily located on National Park Service land, under the Department of the Interior.
The National Links Trust expressed deep dismay at the Trump administration’s decision, affirming that since taking over responsibility for Rock Creek, East Potomac, and Langston five years ago, they have met all contractual obligations to ensure the best future for public golf in Washington, D.C.
NLT emphasized a fundamental disagreement with the government’s claim of breaches, while the Interior Department responded that the Trump administration is proud to fulfill its duties for the American people and work with partners sharing the same goals.
East Potomac and Trump’s Golf Vision
East Potomac has become the focus of the president’s interest. With breathtaking views of the Washington Monument and Potomac River, its renovation is seen as a potential model for nationwide democratization of golf. Sources familiar with the administration’s plans say Trump intends to transform East Potomac into a championship course capable of hosting professional tournaments, possibly including the Ryder Cup. The next available Ryder Cup date is in 2041, with the 2037 event scheduled for Congressional Golf Club near Washington, D.C. Trump’s vision includes replacing the three volunteer architects with Tom Fazio, who has long-standing professional ties to the president.
In December, the president promised that residents of Washington, D.C., would continue to have discounted access to a Trump-designed course, but this promise contrasts with Trump’s twelve privately operated golf clubs, known globally as some of the most expensive facilities in the industry.