The Trump administration terminates leases of DC public golf courses amid disputes over investments and future plans.
The administration of U.S. 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 located within the city. Notably, East Potomac sits prominently in view of the Washington Monument, offering players excellent views of the surrounding landscape. This decision to terminate 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 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 commissioned to lead the projects, offering their expertise pro bono. Thanks to these investments, NLT has doubled both the number of rounds played and revenues during its operation.
In mid-December 2025, Trump threatened NLT with lease termination, alleging contract violations, which NLT denied, expressing confusion over the accusations. Earlier in October, demolition debris from the White House East Wing was dumped on the East Potomac grounds by the government.
Trump Administration Implements Termination of 50-Year Leases
On Wednesday, the U.S. government followed through on its threat and ended the 50-year leases with NLT, citing unmet investment requirements and unfulfilled lease provisions. The courses mostly lie on National Park Service land within the Interior Department’s jurisdiction.
The NLT expressed deep dismay over the Trump administration’s decision, emphasizing its commitment to public golf in Washington, D.C. for the past five years and disputing claims of lease violations. The Interior Department responded that the administration is proud to fulfill its duties and collaborate with partners sharing its goals.
East Potomac in Focus of Trump’s Golf Vision
East Potomac has become central to Trump’s interests. With breathtaking views of the Washington Monument and Potomac River, its renovation is seen as a model to democratize golf nationwide. Sources familiar with the administration’s plans reveal Trump intends to convert East Potomac into a championship course capable of hosting professional tournaments, potentially including the Ryder Cup, though the next available Ryder Cup date is 2041 and the 2037 event is scheduled nearby at Congressional Golf Club. Trump plans to replace the three volunteer architects with Tom Fazio, who has longstanding ties to the president.
In December, Trump had promised discounted play for Washington residents on any course he designs, a promise contrasting with his twelve privately-operated golf courses known as some of the most expensive worldwide.