UPDATE: President Donald Trump is making a bold move to take over Washington, D.C.’s public golf courses, particularly targeting the East Potomac Golf Links, according to an exclusive report by the Wall Street Journal. This plan is a direct response to a logistical challenge stemming from the ongoing demolition of the White House’s East Wing.
Trump’s aides initially considered dumping excess dirt from the demolition at Ellipse, but Interior Secretary Doug Burgum proposed a more strategic solution—transporting the soil to East Potomac. This site, located on a prime stretch of riverfront real estate, is in need of fill to elevate it above the Potomac River floodplain for any significant redesign. Trump reportedly described the idea as “brilliant,” emphasizing his intent to transform the city’s municipal golf courses into “world-class destinations.”
In an interview with the Journal on September 29, 2023, Trump stated, “If we do them, we’ll do it really beautifully,” showcasing his ambition to play a pivotal role in this redevelopment effort. However, this plan has sparked concerns among members of D.C.’s golf community, who fear that Trump’s vision could inflate costs and restrict access for local residents. While Trump has promised that D.C. residents will enjoy lower rates than outside golfers, skepticism remains high.
At the heart of the controversy is the National Links Trust, a nonprofit organization that holds a 50-year lease to restore and manage East Potomac, as well as Rock Creek Park Golf and Langston Golf Course, which holds historical significance for Black golfers. Earlier this year, the MAGA administration issued warnings to the group that it could face default on its lease unless it accepted the dirt from the East Wing demolition.
Since then, tensions have escalated. The Journal reports that Interior officials have issued a formal default notice, and if the National Links Trust does not resolve the issue by the end of the month, the courses could revert to federal control, paving the way for Trump’s redevelopment plans.
As this situation unfolds, the implications for D.C. golfers and the local community are significant. Will Trump’s plan enhance the golfing experience or push local residents out of the game? The clock is ticking, and many are eagerly watching to see how this high-stakes negotiation will conclude.
Be sure to stay tuned for updates as this story develops.
