The Trump administration terminates leases of public golf courses in Washington D.C. over investments and future plans.
The government of US President Donald Trump canceled the leases of three public golf courses in the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C. These include the historically significant Rock Creek, Langston, and East Potomac golf courses located within the city. Notably, East Potomac offers players an excellent view of the surrounding landscape, prominently visible from the Washington Monument. This move reflects the president’s ongoing pattern of prioritizing his brand and vision over urban infrastructure in the capital.
NLT Invested Millions in Renovation and Modernization
The National Links Trust (NLT) has operated these three courses for about five years as a nonprofit and claims to have invested $8.5 million in their renovation. A comprehensive renovation plan was submitted, and the NLT engaged renowned golf architects Gil Hanse, Tom Doak, and Beau Welling to oversee the upgrades, with the architects providing their expertise voluntarily. These investments doubled both the number of rounds played and the revenue generated during their management.
Back in mid-December 2025, Donald Trump threatened to terminate the NLT’s leases, alleging breaches of the agreements. However, the NLT denied any knowledge of such violations and expressed concern over the administration’s threats. In October, the government controversially dumped debris from the dismantled East Wing of the White House on the East Potomac grounds.
Trump Administration Enforces Cancellation of 50-Year Leases
On Wednesday, the administration followed through on its threat, ending the 50-year leases with the NLT, citing failure to meet investment requirements and contractual obligations. These golf courses mainly occupy land managed by the National Park Service, part of the Interior Department.
The NLT expressed deep disappointment over the decision, emphasizing they have always fulfilled contractual duties to secure the best possible future for public golf in Washington, D.C. The Trust also strongly disagreed with the government’s claim of contract breaches. Meanwhile, the Interior Department stated the administration remains committed to serving the American people and partnering with aligned organizations.
East Potomac in Focus of Trump’s Golf Vision
East Potomac has become a focal point in the president’s plans. With its stunning views of the Washington Monument and Potomac River, its renovation is viewed as a potential model for democratizing golf nationwide. Sources close to the administration reveal plans to transform East Potomac into a championship-level course capable of hosting professional tournaments, possibly including the Ryder Cup. However, the next available Ryder Cup slot is in 2041, with the 2037 event scheduled at Congressional Golf Club near the capital. Trump envisions replacing the volunteer architects with Tom Fazio, known for his long-standing ties to the president.
Despite a December promise that D.C. residents could continue to enjoy discounted play on a Trump-designed course, this stands in contrast to Trump’s own dozen golf properties worldwide, which rank among the most expensive.