The Trump administration terminates leases of Washington, D.C.’s public golf courses amid disputes over investments and future plans.
The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump has terminated the lease agreements of three historic public golf courses in the capital, Washington, D.C. These include Rock Creek, Langston, and East Potomac, with East Potomac prominently located in view of the Washington Monument, offering players stunning landscapes. This move reflects the president’s recurring pattern of prioritizing his brand and vision over the city’s public infrastructure.
NLT Invested Millions in Renovations and Modernization
The National Links Trust (NLT), a nonprofit operating the three courses for about five years, has reportedly invested $8.5 million in renovations. Renowned golf architects Gil Hanse, Tom Doak, and Beau Welling were commissioned to lead the renovations, volunteering their expertise. These investments have doubled rounds played and revenue during NLT’s management.
Already in mid-December 2025, Trump threatened to terminate the leases, accusing NLT of violating contractual terms. NLT denied these allegations and expressed surprise over the government’s threats. Earlier, government actions included dumping debris from the White House’s demolished East Wing onto East Potomac grounds.
Trump Administration Enforces Termination of 50-Year Leases
On Wednesday, the government enforced the lease terminations previously agreed for 50 years, citing insufficient investments and unfulfilled contractual obligations. The courses mostly lie on National Park Service land under the Interior Department.
NLT expressed profound disappointment over the decision, highlighting their compliance with contractual duties to secure public golf’s future in Washington, D.C. They disagreed fundamentally with the government’s claims of breaches. The Interior Department responded proudly about fulfilling responsibilities to the American people and collaborating with partners sharing similar goals.
East Potomac at the Center of Trump’s Golf Vision
East Potomac has become a focal point for Trump’s golf plans. With sweeping views of the Washington Monument and Potomac River, its renovation aims to serve as a model for golf democratization nationwide. However, sources close to the administration reveal Trump intends to transform East Potomac into a championship course capable of hosting major tournaments, possibly even the Ryder Cup, despite the next available Ryder Cup dates being 2037 and 2041, already allocated. Trump’s vision includes replacing the current volunteer architects with Tom Fazio, who maintains long-term professional ties to the president.
In December, Trump pledged discounted play for Washington, D.C. residents on any course he designs, though this conflicts with the typically high prices at his 12 privately operated courses worldwide.