Trump Announces DC Golf Course Renovation Despite Legal Challenges
Despite a judge’s order to pause plans, Donald Trump announced that construction on the East Potomac Golf Links in Washington, D.C., will begin November 15th, with a projected reopening in approximately 15 months. The project aims to transform the course into a championship venue.
What happened
- President Donald Trump announced plans to renovate the East Potomac Golf Links course in Washington, D.C., beginning November 15th, despite a federal judge’s order to halt tree removal.
- According to Trump’s Truth Social post, the current course is described as "old, broken, dilapidated, and of no further use or effect."
- The Department of the Interior, led by Secretary Doug Burgum, is collaborating with golf course architect Tom Fazio to redesign the course, intending to host major tournaments such as the U.S. Open, PGA Championship, Ryder Cup, and Presidents Cup.
- The project is slated to close the existing course for approximately 15 months.
- This announcement follows a legal battle initiated by a preservation group and two individuals who argued the proposed championship-style golf course would increase tee-time costs and alter the course’s original purpose.
- Judge Ana Reyes had previously ordered a halt to tree removal, citing environmental and historic preservation concerns.
- The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the announcement, and the judge ordered the government to clarify its position by 8 p.m. on Sunday.
Original reporting
- Guardian: Trump says DC golf course ‘restoration’ to start despite judge’s order to pause plans
2026-10-18T00:00:00+00:00 - Fox News: Trump unveils plan to transform historic DC golf course as judge tees off
2026-10-18T23:22:18+00:00 - PBS NewsHour: Trump says he will close historic D.C. golf course for 15 months of renovations
2026-10-18T16:46:41+00:00 - CBS News: Trump says construction at historic Washiongton, D.C. golf course will start next month
2026-10-18T16:59:36+00:00 - NPR: Trump to close and renovate D.C. golf course, despite legal battle
2026-10-18T00:00:00+00:00 - Washington Examiner: Trump shares detailed plan of East Potomac Links golf course despite legal challenges
2026-10-18T21:41:15+00:00