The Trump administration cancels leases of public golf courses in Washington, D.C., citing investment failures and future plans.
The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump has terminated the leases of three historic public golf courses in the capital, Washington, D.C. These courses include Rock Creek, Langston, and East Potomac, all centrally located within the city. Notably, East Potomac is prominently visible near the Washington Monument, offering players stunning views of the surrounding landscape. This move reflects the president’s pattern of prioritizing his brand and vision over the city’s infrastructure.
NLT Invested Millions in Renovation and Modernization
The National Links Trust (NLT) has operated these three golf courses as a nonprofit organization for about five years and claims to have invested $8.5 million in their renovation. A comprehensive refurbishment plan was proposed, with architects Gil Hanse, Tom Doak, and Beau Welling volunteering their expertise to lead the renovations. These investments led to a doubling of both rounds played and revenue during NLT’s management.
Already in mid-December 2025, Donald Trump threatened to terminate the leases, accusing the NLT of violating lease agreements. The NLT denied knowledge of any breaches and expressed surprise at the government’s threats. In October, the administration controversially dumped demolition debris from the White House’s East Wing on East Potomac’s grounds.
Trump Administration Enforces Termination of 50-Year Leases
On Wednesday, the U.S. government followed through on threats, ending the 50-year lease agreements with NLT, citing failure to meet investment requirements and contractual terms. The golf courses are mainly on National Park Service property, part of the Department of the Interior.
The NLT expressed deep disappointment over the decision, asserting full compliance and commitment to public golf in Washington, D.C. They also fundamentally disagreed with the government’s accusations. The Interior Department responded that the administration is proud to fulfill its duties for the American people with partners sharing the same goals.
East Potomac in Focus of Trump’s Golf Vision
East Potomac has become a prime interest for the president. With its breathtaking views of the Washington Monument and Potomac River, the site is seen as a potential model to democratize golf nationwide. However, sources familiar with the administration’s plans reveal Trump intends to transform East Potomac into a championship course capable of hosting professional tournaments, possibly including the Ryder Cup. The next available Ryder Cup date is 2041, with 2037 already scheduled for Congressional Golf Club near Washington. Trump’s vision includes replacing the volunteer architects with Tom Fazio, who has long-standing professional ties to the president.
In December, the president promised affordable play access for Washington residents on a Trump-designed course, though this contradicts his twelve privately operated courses globally, known among the most expensive in the industry.