The Trump administration cancels leases of public golf courses in Washington, D.C., citing investment issues and future plans.
The administration of US President Donald Trump announced the termination of lease agreements for three public golf courses in the capital city Washington, D.C. These include the historically significant courses Rock Creek, Langston, and East Potomac located within the city. Notably, East Potomac golf course offers a prominent view of the Washington Monument, providing players with a stunning landscape. This decision to end the leases reflects the President’s broader pattern of prioritizing his brand and vision over the city’s infrastructure.
NLT Invested Millions in Renovation and Modernization
The National Links Trust (NLT), a nonprofit that has managed these three courses for about five years, claims to have invested $8.5 million in renovating the facilities. An extensive renovation plan was submitted, and NLT engaged golf architects Gil Hanse, Tom Doak, and Beau Welling to lead the renovations. The architects agreed to contribute their expertise free of charge. These modernization efforts doubled both rounds played and revenue during operation.
As early as mid-December 2025, Donald Trump threatened to terminate the leases with the NLT, alleging breaches of the lease agreements. The NLT denied knowledge of any breaches and expressed confusion over the government’s threats. Earlier, in October, the administration dumped debris from the dismantled East Wing of the White House at the East Potomac site.
Trump Administration Enforces Termination of 50-Year Leases
On Wednesday, the U.S. government followed through on its threat, terminating the 50-year lease agreements with the NLT, citing failure to implement required investments and to comply with lease terms. The golf courses are mainly located on land managed by the National Park Service, part of the Department of the Interior.
The National Links Trust expressed deep regret over the administration’s decision, asserting they have met all contractual obligations since assuming management five years ago to secure the best future for public golf in Washington, D.C. The NLT also strongly disputed the government’s claim of lease violations. The Interior Department responded, stating the administration is proud to fulfill its duties for the American people and work with partners sharing the same goals.
East Potomac at the Center of Trump’s Golf Vision
East Potomac has become a focal point for the President’s plans. With its breathtaking views of the Washington Monument and Potomac River, the site is considered a potential model for democratizing golf nationwide. However, according to three sources familiar with the administration’s intentions, Trump plans to transform East Potomac into a championship course capable of hosting professional tournaments, possibly including the Ryder Cup. Notably, the next available Ryder Cup date is in 2041, with Congressional Golf Club near Washington scheduled for 2037. Trump’s vision includes 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 still be able to play at discounted rates on a Trump-designed course. Yet, this pledge contrasts with Trump’s dozen privately operated courses worldwide, known for some of the highest fees in the industry.