The Trump administration cancels leases of public golf courses in Washington D.C. over investment disputes and future plans.
The government of U.S. President Donald Trump announced the termination of lease agreements for three public golf courses in the capital, Washington, D.C. These include the historically significant courses Rock Creek, Langston, and East Potomac located within the city. Particularly, East Potomac is prominently visible from the Washington Monument and offers players an excellent view of the surrounding landscape. This decision to end the leases reflects the president’s pattern of prioritizing his brand and vision over the city’s infrastructure.
NLT Invested Millions in Renovations and Modernization
The National Links Trust (NLT), operating the three courses as a nonprofit organization for about five years, has invested approximately $8.5 million in renovations. A comprehensive renovation plan was submitted, with golf architects Gil Hanse, Tom Doak, and Beau Welling overseeing the projects, offering their expertise pro bono. The investments have doubled both rounds played and revenue during the NLT’s tenure.
In mid-December 2025, Donald Trump threatened to cancel the leases, alleging that the NLT violated lease agreements. The NLT denied knowledge of any violations and expressed surprise at the government’s threats. In October, the administration even dumped construction debris from the White House’s demolished East Wing onto East Potomac grounds.
Trump Administration Enforces Termination of 50-Year Leases
On Wednesday, the administration followed through, terminating the 50-year lease agreements claiming the NLT failed to meet investment requirements and contractual obligations. The golf courses largely sit on land managed by the National Park Service, part of the Interior Department.
The NLT expressed deep disappointment over the decision, asserting it fulfilled all contractual duties since assuming responsibility for Rock Creek, East Potomac, and Langston golf courses five years ago to secure the future of public golf in Washington, D.C. The NLT also strongly disagreed with the government’s claims of contract breaches. The Interior Department responded that the Trump administration is proud to serve the American people and partner with those sharing its goals.
East Potomac Central to Trump’s Golf Vision
East Potomac has become the focus of the president’s interest due to its stunning views of the Washington Monument and Potomac River. The renovation is seen as a model for democratizing golf nationwide. However, sources familiar with the administration’s plans revealed Trump intends to transform East Potomac into a championship course capable of hosting professional tournaments, potentially including the Ryder Cup. The next available Ryder Cup slot is in 2041, with the 2037 event set at Congressional Golf Club near Washington, D.C. Trump’s vision includes replacing the volunteer architects with Tom Fazio, who has longstanding professional ties to the president.
In December, Trump promised that Washington, D.C. residents would still enjoy discounted play on a Trump-designed course, despite his own golf courses worldwide being among the most expensive in the industry.