Judge in dispute over Washington golf course tells Trump officials not to cut trees without notice
The judge said the National Park Service must give notice before removing more than 10 trees as the Trump administration faces a lawsuit over the course's future.
- On Monday, the Trump administration began a takeover of the East Potomac Golf Course, planning extensive renovations to transform the 124-year-old public facility into a championship-caliber venue.
- The administration cancelled the 50-year lease held by National Links Trust in December 2025, though CEO Mike McCartin disputes the maintenance justification, arguing the timeline was driven by the Park Service.
- Legal advocacy nonprofit Democracy Forward filed an emergency court order Sunday to halt the work, alleging the administration violated the Administrative Procedure Act by bypassing required environmental studies.
- Renderings show the course "reimagined" with a National Garden of Heroes, though community concerns emerged regarding potential 50% cost increases and restricted public access to the historic site.
- U.S. District Judge Ana C. Reyes scheduled a hearing for Monday morning to address the emergency motion, as the project continues a broader Trump administration initiative to renovate landmarks across the capital.
57 Articles
57 Articles
Trump eyes a new construction project
A golfer plays at East Potomac Golf Links in Washington, DC, on January 8, 2026. | Matt McClain/The Washington Post via Getty Images This story appeared in The Logoff, a daily newsletter that helps you stay informed about the Trump administration without letting political news take over your life. Subscribe here. Welcome to The Logoff: Donald Trump is eyeing a new target in his effort to remodel DC. What’s happening? Over the weekend, the Washi…
Judge warns of 'serious consequences' if administration begins work at East Potomac Golf Course
Elbert Tse plays golf at the East Potomac Golf Links on May 3, 2026, in Washington, DC. Reports were circulating that the administration planned to take over operations of the popular municipal golf course as soon as Sunday evening, even as officials have offered few details to the public or the course’s current operator.(Photo by Pete Kiehart for The Washington Post via Getty Images) (WASHINGTON) — A federal judge on Monday warned Justice Depar…
Judge threatens Trump admin with ‘serious consequences’ over DC golf course plans during wild hearing
A federal judge was adamant Monday that the Trump administration must give proper notice before renovating the East Potomac Golf Links, warning of "serious consequences" if it fails to do so.
Fed Judge Declares ‘I’m No Amy Poehler’ on DC Golf Course Issue
A federal judge said Monday she would stay the course and not block the Trump administration from closing East Potomac Golf Links. U.S. District Judge Ana Reyes said reports about renovation plans aren’t enough for her block the process, but added warned she would intervene if the plans move forward, per The Hill. “I don’t want to be the overseer of Parks and Rec. I’m no Amy Poehler,” Reyes said at a Monday hearing. Construction crews have been…
Judge Warns Trump Not to Begin Golf Course Project
ABC News: “A federal judge on Monday warned Justice Department lawyers of ‘serious consequences’ if the Trump administration begins major work at a public golf course in the District of Columbia without getting approval and notifying the court in advance.”
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