Trump Announces 15-Month Closure of Historic DC Golf Course Amid Legal Battle
President Trump plans to shutter East Potomac Golf Course for major renovations, defying a court-ordered halt following controversial tree removal efforts.
POLICY WIRE — Washington, D.C. — President Donald Trump declared on Sunday his intention to close the historic East Potomac Golf Course for a 15-month renovation project. The president aims to transform the public facility into a world-class destination capable of hosting major tournaments like the U.S. Open and the Ryder Cup.
This announcement arrives despite a federal judge ordering a pause on redevelopment activities until at least October 26. The court intervention followed sharp criticism from U.S. District Judge Ana Reyes regarding the government’s decision to conduct significant tree removal at the site with minimal notice to the court or the plaintiffs involved in the legal challenge.
Representing the plaintiffs, the group Democracy Forward emphasized that the course serves as a vital community asset and national park space. While the administration maintains that no final agency action has been taken, the president’s public commitment to the closure complicates the ongoing legal proceedings, which include a scheduled hearing to address the government’s request for the presiding judge to step aside.
Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)
