The Trump administration cancels leases of public golf courses in Washington, D.C., amid disputes over investments and future plans.
The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump has terminated the lease agreements for three public golf courses in the nation’s capital: the historically significant Rock Creek, Langston, and East Potomac courses. East Potomac, prominently located within view of the Washington Monument, offers golfers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. This decision reflects the President’s pattern of prioritizing his brand and vision over the city’s infrastructure.
NLT Invested Millions in Renovations and Upgrades
The National Links Trust (NLT), a nonprofit organization, has managed these three courses for about five years, investing $8.5 million in renovations. They engaged golf architects Gil Hanse, Tom Doak, and Beau Welling—who volunteered their expertise—to oversee the upgrades. The investments have doubled rounds played and revenues during operation.
In mid-December 2025, President Trump warned NLT about lease termination over alleged contract breaches, claims the NLT denies. In October, the administration deposited debris from the White House East Wing demolition at East Potomac’s site.
Trump Administration Enforces the Termination of 50-Year Leases
On Wednesday, the government acted on its threat, ending the 50-year leases held by NLT due to unmet investment requirements and contractual conditions. The courses lie mostly on land managed by the National Park Service under the Department of the Interior.
NLT expressed deep disappointment, stating they have fulfilled contractual obligations to secure a strong future for public golf in D.C. They dispute the government’s claims of violations. The Interior Department responded, affirming pride in serving the American public with aligned partners.
East Potomac and Trump’s Golf Vision
East Potomac has become central to Trump’s vision, with plans to transform it into a championship course capable of hosting professional tournaments, potentially including the Ryder Cup. However, the next available Ryder Cup slot is 2041, with 2037 already booked for Congressional Golf Club near D.C. Trump plans to replace the volunteer architects with Tom Fazio, a longtime associate. In December, Trump promised affordable play for D.C. residents on his redesigned course, contrasting with his twelve exclusive, high-priced golf properties worldwide.