The Trump administration terminates leases of public golf courses in Washington, D.C. over investments and future plans.
The government under US President Donald Trump announced the termination of leases for the three public golf courses in the U.S. capital, Washington, D.C. These are the historically significant courses Rock Creek, Langston, and East Potomac located within the city. Particularly, East Potomac lies prominently in view of the Washington Monument, offering players excellent 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 city’s infrastructure in the nation’s capital.
NLT Invested Millions in Renovation and Modernization
The National Links Trust (NLT), a nonprofit managing the three courses for about five years, reported having invested $8.5 million in renovations. A comprehensive renovation plan was submitted, with architects Gil Hanse, Tom Doak, and Beau Welling volunteering their expertise to lead the projects. Investments to date have doubled both rounds played and revenue during operation.
In mid-December 2025, Donald Trump threatened the NLT with lease termination, alleging breaches of the lease agreement. The NLT denied knowledge of any violations and expressed concern over the government’s threats. In October, the government reportedly dumped debris from the demolished East Wing of the White House on the East Potomac site.
Trump Administration Enacts Termination of 50-Year Leases
On Wednesday, the US government followed through, terminating the 50-year leases with the NLT due to unmet required investments and failure to comply with specific lease provisions. The courses are mainly on National Park Service land, under the Interior Department.
The NLT expressed deep dismay over the decision, emphasizing it had fulfilled all contractual obligations to secure the public golf future in D.C. It strongly disagreed with the government’s claims of lease breaches. 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 in the Spotlight of Trump’s Golf Vision
East Potomac has become a focal point of the president’s interest. With stunning views of the Washington Monument and Potomac River, its renovation is seen as a model for nationwide democratization of golf. Yet sources familiar with government intentions reveal Trump plans to convert East Potomac into a championship venue potentially hosting professional tournaments, including possibly the Ryder Cup. The next available Ryder Cup slot is in 2041; the 2037 event is set at Congressional Golf Club near D.C. Trump also intends to replace the three volunteer architects with Tom Fazio, who has long professional ties to him.
In December, the president promised D.C. residents would retain discounted play privileges on a Trump-designed course. However, this contradicts his twelve exclusive private golf properties, known as some of the priciest worldwide.