The Trump administration cancels leases of three public golf courses in Washington D.C., citing investments and future plans as key issues.
The U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration terminated the leases of three historic public golf courses in the nation’s capital: Rock Creek, Langston, and East Potomac. The East Potomac course, notably located within view of the Washington Monument, offers players spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. This move reflects the president’s broader pattern of prioritizing his brand and vision over the city’s infrastructure.
Millions Invested by National Links Trust (NLT) in Renovations
The National Links Trust, a non-profit managing these courses for approximately five years, claims to have invested $8.5 million towards their restoration. Renowned golf architects Gil Hanse, Tom Doak, and Beau Welling have been engaged pro bono to oversee the renovations. These investments have doubled both the number of rounds played and revenue generated during NLT’s tenure.
In mid-December 2025, Trump threatened to cancel the leases, alleging that the NLT violated terms of the lease agreement. The NLT denied awareness of any such violations and expressed surprise at the government’s threats. Earlier, in October, debris from the demolished East Wing of the White House was deposited on the East Potomac site by the administration.
Trump Administration Enforces Termination of 50-Year Leases
On Wednesday, the government followed through on its threat, ending the 50-year lease agreements with the NLT on the grounds of insufficient investment and unfulfilled contractual obligations. Most of these courses are situated on National Park Service lands under the Department of the Interior.
The National Links Trust expressed deep disappointment over the administration’s decision, stating they have consistently met all contractual obligations to secure a promising future for public golf in Washington, D.C. The NLT strongly disagrees with the government’s assertion of contractual breaches, while the Interior Department affirmed the administration’s commitment to fulfilling its responsibilities and collaborating with aligned partners.
East Potomac in the Spotlight of Trump’s Golf Vision
East Potomac has become central to the president’s plans. With its iconic views of the Washington Monument and Potomac River, the renovation project is seen as a potential model for democratizing golf nationwide. However, sources familiar with the administration’s intentions reveal Trump aims to transform East Potomac into a championship course capable of hosting professional tournaments, possibly including the Ryder Cup — though the next available Ryder Cup is in 2041, with the 2037 event already scheduled at Congressional Golf Club nearby. Trump reportedly plans to replace the current volunteer architects with Tom Fazio, a longtime associate.
In December, the president assured that residents of Washington, D.C. would continue to enjoy discounted play on a Trump-designed course. This promise contrasts sharply with Trump’s twelve private golf courses worldwide, known for being among the most expensive in the industry.