The Trump administration cancels leases of public golf courses in Washington D.C. over investments and future plans.
The administration of US President Donald Trump has terminated the leases of three public golf courses in the capital, Washington, D.C. These are the historically significant courses Rock Creek, Langston, and East Potomac, all situated within the city. Notably, East Potomac lies prominently within sight of the Washington Monument, offering players stunning views of the surrounding landscape. This decision to cancel the leases reflects the president’s broader pattern of prioritizing his brand and vision over the city’s public infrastructure.
NLT Invested Millions in Renovation and Modernization
The National Links Trust (NLT), a nonprofit organization, has operated the three golf courses for about five years and claims to have invested $8.5 million in renovating the facilities. A comprehensive renovation plan was presented, and the NLT engaged renowned golf architects Gil Hanse, Tom Doak, and Beau Welling to oversee the courses’ refurbishments, with the architects offering their expertise pro bono. Thanks to these investments, the NLT doubled both the number of rounds played and revenue during its operation.
In mid-December 2025, Donald Trump threatened to terminate the leases with the NLT, alleging breaches of the lease agreement by the trust. The NLT denied any knowledge of such violations and expressed confusion over the government’s threats. Earlier in October, the government also dumped debris from the demolished East Wing of the White House onto the East Potomac grounds.
Trump Administration Moves to Terminate 50-Year Leases
On Wednesday, the US government followed through on its threat and canceled the 50-year lease agreements with the NLT, citing failure to meet required investments and contractual provisions. The courses reside mostly on National Park Service land, part of the Interior Department.
The National Links Trust expressed deep disappointment with the Trump administration’s decision, stating they have consistently fulfilled all contractual obligations over the past five years to ensure a bright future for public golf in Washington, D.C. The NLT emphasized its fundamental disagreement with the government’s claims of contract breaches. The Interior Department responded that the Trump administration is proud to serve the American people and collaborate with partners who share its goals.
East Potomac at the Center of Trump’s Golf Vision
East Potomac has become a focal point of the president’s interests. Its breathtaking views of the Washington Monument and Potomac River position it as a potential model for nationwide democratization of golf. According to sources familiar with the administration’s plans, Trump intends to transform East Potomac into a championship course capable of hosting professional tournaments, potentially including the Ryder Cup. However, the next available Ryder Cup date is 2041, with the 2037 event already scheduled at Congressional Golf Club in the D.C. area. Trump’s vision also involves replacing the three volunteer architects with Tom Fazio, who has longstanding professional ties to the president.
In December, the president promised that Washington, D.C. residents would continue to enjoy discounted golf access on a Trump-designed course. This pledge contrasts with his twelve privately owned courses worldwide, known as some of the most expensive in the industry.