The Trump administration terminates leases of public golf courses in Washington D.C. over investments and future plans.
The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump announced the termination of lease agreements for three historic public golf courses in the nation’s capital, Washington D.C. These include the Rock Creek, Langston, and East Potomac golf courses, with East Potomac prominently located in view of the Washington Monument, offering players an excellent vista of the surrounding landscape. This decision reflects the president’s general approach of prioritizing his brand and vision over the city’s infrastructure.
NLT Invested Millions in Renovation and Modernization
The National Links Trust (NLT), a non-profit organization, has managed these golf courses for about five years and claims to have invested $8.5 million in their renovation. A comprehensive renovation plan has been proposed, with golf architects Gil Hanse, Tom Doak, and Beau Welling volunteering their expertise. Thanks to these investments, the NLT has doubled both rounds played and revenues during its management period.
In mid-December 2025, Donald Trump already threatened the NLT with lease termination, alleging contract violations, claims the NLT denies, expressing confusion over the government’s threats. In October, the government even dumped debris from the demolished East Wing of the White House on East Potomac grounds.
Trump Administration Enforces Termination of 50-Year Leases
On Wednesday, the U.S. government followed through on its warning, terminating the 50-year lease agreements with the NLT, citing failure to meet required investments and contract terms. These courses mostly lie on land managed by the National Park Service, part of the Interior Department.
The NLT expressed deep dismay at the decision, emphasizing their compliance and commitment to securing the public golf legacy in Washington D.C. The organization disputes the government’s claims of contractual breaches. The Interior Department countered, asserting pride in fulfilling duties for the American people and collaborating with partners sharing their goals.
East Potomac at the Center of Trump’s Golf Vision
East Potomac has become the focus of the president’s interests. With stunning views of the Washington Monument and Potomac River, its renovation is seen as a potential model for democratizing golf nationwide. However, sources familiar with government intentions reveal Trump plans to transform East Potomac into a championship course capable of hosting professional tournaments, including possibly the Ryder Cup, though the next available Ryder Cup slot is in 2041, following the 2037 event at Congressional Golf Club near Washington. Trump intends to replace the volunteer architects with Tom Fazio, who has longstanding professional ties to the president.
In December, Trump promised discounted access for Washington D.C. residents at the redesigned course, a claim contrasting with his twelve exclusive, high-priced golf properties worldwide.