The Trump administration terminates leases of Washington D.C.’s public golf courses over investment disputes and future plans.
The US President Donald Trump’s administration has terminated the lease agreements for the three public golf courses in the capital city of Washington, D.C. These include the historically significant Rock Creek, Langston, and East Potomac golf courses located within the city. Especially the East Potomac course is prominently located within sight of the Washington Monument, offering players a stunning view of the surrounding landscape. This decision to terminate the leases reflects the president’s general pattern of prioritizing his brand and vision over the city’s infrastructure.
NLT Invested Millions in Renovation and Modernization
The National Links Trust (NLT), a nonprofit organization, has operated these three courses for about five years, reportedly investing $8.5 million in renovating the facilities. An extensive renovation plan was presented, with golf architects Gil Hanse, Tom Doak, and Beau Welling engaged to lead the projects, all providing their expertise pro bono. These investments have doubled both the number of rounds played and operating revenues.
In mid-December 2025, Donald Trump threatened to terminate the NLT’s lease agreements, alleging contract violations. The NLT denied knowledge of any breaches and expressed surprise over the government’s threats. In October, the administration controversially dumped debris from the White House’s demolished East Wing onto the East Potomac grounds.
Trump Administration Enforces Termination of 50-Year Lease Agreements
On Wednesday, the US government followed through, terminating the 50-year leases with the NLT due to alleged failure to fulfill investment obligations and contractual terms. The golf courses are mostly situated on National Park Service land, under the Department of the Interior.
The NLT expressed deep disappointment over the decision, emphasizing that since taking responsibility for Rock Creek, East Potomac, and Langston courses five years ago, all contractual obligations were met to secure the future of public golf in Washington, D.C. The NLT strongly disputed the government’s representation of contract violation. The Interior Department responded that the Trump administration is proud to serve the American people and work with partners sharing the same goals.
East Potomac at the Center of Trump’s Golf Vision
East Potomac has drawn particular interest from the president. Its breathtaking views of the Washington Monument and Potomac River position the course as a potential model for nationwide democratization of golf. However, according to three sources familiar with the administration’s plans, Trump intends to transform East Potomac into a championship course capable of hosting professional tournaments, possibly including the Ryder Cup. Notably, the next open Ryder Cup date is in 2041, with the 2037 event already booked at Congressional Golf Club near Washington. Trump’s vision involves replacing the volunteer architects with Tom Fazio, who has longstanding professional ties to the president.
In December, Trump promised affordable access for Washington, D.C. residents on a redesigned course, though this pledge contrasts with the high fees at his 12 privately operated courses worldwide.