The Trump administration cancels leases of public golf courses in Washington, D.C., citing investment and future plan disputes.
The administration of US President Donald Trump has terminated the lease agreements for the three public golf courses in the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C. These courses are the historically significant Rock Creek, Langston, and East Potomac golf courses located within the city. Notably, the East Potomac golf course sits prominently in view of the Washington Monument, offering golfers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. This decision to end the leases reflects the president’s broader pattern of prioritizing his brand and vision over urban infrastructure in the capital.
NLT invested millions in renovation and modernization
The National Links Trust (NLT), a nonprofit organization, has operated these three golf courses for approximately five years and states it has already invested $8.5 million in refurbishing the facilities. An extensive renovation plan was submitted, and NLT enlisted notable golf architects Gil Hanse, Tom Doak, and Beau Welling to oversee the renovations, who agreed to provide their expertise pro bono. Thanks to these investments in modernization, NLT succeeded in doubling both the number of rounds played and revenue during its operation.
In mid-December 2025, President Trump threatened the National Links Trust with lease termination, alleging breaches of the lease agreements. The NLT denied any knowledge of such breaches and expressed surprise at the government’s threats. Earlier, in October, the government had dumped debris from the demolished East Wing of the White House onto the East Potomac site.
Trump administration enforces termination of 50-year lease agreements
On Wednesday, the US government followed through on this threat and canceled the 50-year lease agreements with the NLT, claiming the organization failed to fulfill required investments and certain lease provisions. The golf courses are largely located on National Park Service land under the Department of the Interior.
The National Links Trust expressed deep disappointment over the Trump administration’s decision, stating that since taking responsibility for Rock Creek, East Potomac, and Langston golf courses five years ago, it has always met all contractual obligations to secure the best possible future for public golf in Washington, D.C.
NLT emphasized a fundamental disagreement with the government’s claim of lease violations. The Interior Department responded that the Trump administration is proud to fulfill its duties to the American people and work with partners sharing the same goals.
East Potomac central to Trump’s golf vision
East Potomac has captured the president’s interest, admired for its breathtaking views of the Washington Monument and Potomac River. Its renovation is seen as a potential model for democratizing golf nationwide. Sources familiar with the government’s plans report Trump intends to transform East Potomac into a championship course capable of hosting professional tournaments, including potentially the Ryder Cup. However, the next open Ryder Cup slot is not until 2041, with the 2037 event already scheduled at Congressional Golf Club near the capital. Trump’s vision also involves replacing the volunteer architects with Tom Fazio, a longtime professional associate of the president.
In December, Trump promised that Washington, D.C. residents would continue to enjoy discounted play on a Trump-designed course, though this pledge contrasts with his twelve privately