The Trump administration cancels leases of public golf courses in Washington D.C., citing investment and future plan disputes.
The government of U.S. President Donald Trump announced the termination of the lease agreements for three public golf courses in the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C. These are the historically significant courses Rock Creek, Langston, and East Potomac located within the city. Especially East Potomac is prominently situated with a view of the Washington Monument, offering players an excellent landscape outlook. This decision to end the leases reflects the president’s broader tendency to prioritize his brand and vision over the city’s infrastructure.
Millions Invested by National Links Trust in Renovation and Modernization
The National Links Trust (NLT), a nonprofit organization, has operated the three courses for about five years and claims to have invested $8.5 million in their renovation. A comprehensive renovation plan was presented, with golf architects Gil Hanse, Tom Doak, and Beau Welling volunteering their expertise. 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 NLT’s leases over alleged breaches of contract, which NLT denies. The government even dumped construction debris from the White House East Wing demolition on East Potomac’s grounds in October, escalating tensions.
Trump Administration Enforces Termination of 50-Year Lease Agreements
On Wednesday, the U.S. government made good on its threat, ending the 50-year leases with NLT due to unmet investment requirements and contractual breaches. The courses mostly sit on National Park Service land, part of the Department of the Interior.
The NLT expressed deep disappointment over the decision, emphasizing it has fulfilled all contractual obligations to secure the future of public golf in Washington, D.C. NLT strongly disagrees with the government’s claim of violations. The Interior Department stated the administration is proud to fulfill its duties for the American people, working with partners sharing the same goals.
East Potomac at Center of Trump’s Golf Vision
East Potomac has become a focal point of President Trump’s interest. With stunning views of the Washington Monument and Potomac River, the renovation is viewed as a model for democratizing golf nationwide. However, according to government sources, Trump intends to transform East Potomac into a championship course capable of hosting professional tournaments, possibly including the Ryder Cup. Notably, the next available Ryder Cup slot is in 2041, with the 2037 event already booked at Congressional Golf Club near D.C. Trump’s plans include replacing the volunteer architects with Tom Fazio, who has longstanding ties to the president.
In December, Trump promised that Washington D.C. residents would still have access to discounted play on a Trump-designed course, though this contrasts with his other expensive golf properties worldwide.