The Trump administration cancels leases of public golf courses in Washington, D.C., citing investment disputes and future plans.
The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump announced the cancellation of lease agreements for three public golf courses in the capital, Washington, D.C. These courses are the historically significant Rock Creek, Langston, and East Potomac golf courses located within the city. Notably, East Potomac is prominently situated within sight of the Washington Monument and offers players outstanding views of the surrounding landscape. This decision to terminate the leases reflects the president’s general pattern of prioritizing his brand and vision over the urban infrastructure of the nation’s capital.
NLT Invested Millions in Renovation and Modernization
The National Links Trust (NLT) has operated the three golf courses for about five years as a nonprofit organization and reports having already invested $8.5 million in renovating the facilities. An extensive renovation plan was submitted, and NLT has engaged golf architects Gil Hanse, Tom Doak, and Beau Welling to lead the course restorations. The architects have agreed to provide their expertise free of charge. Thanks to these modernization efforts, NLT has doubled both the number of rounds played and revenue during its management period.
Already in mid-December 2025, Donald Trump threatened the National Links Trust with lease cancellations over alleged contract breaches, which NLT denied, expressing confusion over the government’s warnings. Earlier in October, the administration deposited construction debris from the demolished East Wing of the White House onto the grounds of East Potomac.
Trump Administration Enforces 50-Year Lease Termination
On Wednesday, the U.S. government followed through on its threat by terminating the 50-year lease agreements with NLT, citing failure to fulfill necessary investments and contractual obligations. The golf courses are mostly located on land managed by the National Park Service, an Interior Department agency.
The National Links Trust expressed deep disappointment in the Trump administration’s decision, emphasizing that since taking over responsibility for Rock Creek, East Potomac, and Langston five years ago, NLT has consistently met all contractual commitments to secure the best possible future for public golf in Washington, D.C.
NLT strongly disputes the government’s claim of lease violations. The Interior Department responded that the Trump administration is proud to serve the American people and collaborate with partners who share their goals.
East Potomac in Focus of Trump’s Golf Vision
East Potomac has become a focal point of Presidential interest. With its stunning views of the Washington Monument and the Potomac River, the site’s renovation is seen as a potential model for nationwide democratization of golf. However, according to three sources familiar with the administration’s intentions, Trump plans to transform East Potomac into a championship course capable of hosting professional tournaments, possibly including the Ryder Cup. It is known that the next available Ryder Cup slot is in 2041, with the 2037 event already scheduled at the Congressional Golf Club near the capital. Trump envisions replacing the three volunteer architects with Tom Fazio, who has long-standing professional ties to the president.
In December, the president promised that Washington, D.C. residents would still enjoy discounted play on a Trump-designed course, yet this pledge contrasts with the