President Donald Trump is quietly locked in a high-stakes power struggle in Washington, D.C., one that could reshape how some of the nation’s most valuable public land is managed for decades.
At the center of the dispute are the District’s public golf courses — taxpayer-owned properties located on prime federal land — and whether they should remain under local nonprofit control or return to direct federal oversight.
Earlier this fall, the Trump administration issued a formal notice of default to the National Links Trust, the nonprofit organization that has operated Washington’s three municipal golf courses since 2020. The group manages the courses under a long-term lease with the National Park Service, which owns the land and reports to the Department of the Interior.
The notice immediately raised alarms among D.C. officials and progressive activists, many of whom now fear the federal government could reclaim control of the properties.
The Links Trust signed a 50-year lease just five years ago with plans to renovate and modernize the historic courses using a combination of private fundraising and District support. From the start, the nonprofit framed its mission around affordability and access in a city dominated by elite private clubs.
However, the Trump administration has not publicly explained why the organization was found to be in default, nor has it outlined what steps would resolve the dispute. That silence has fueled speculation that President Trump is preparing to bring the courses back under direct federal authority.
Supporters of the president argue that the move reflects a broader effort to protect federal land, improve public assets, and ensure long-term accountability for taxpayer-owned property.
The flashpoint of the controversy is East Potomac Golf Links, widely regarded as the crown jewel of Washington’s public golf system. Situated at the tip of Hains Point, the sprawling property offers sweeping views of the Washington Monument and the Potomac River — scenery typically reserved for private clubs charging thousands of dollars in annual dues.
Despite its location, East Potomac remains one of the most affordable golf options in the region, with greens fees rarely exceeding $50 for 18 holes — often far less than public courses in neighboring Maryland and Virginia.
President Trump, who owns and operates several world-renowned golf resorts, has spoken openly about the site’s potential. In recent remarks, he suggested that any federal involvement would result in significant upgrades done “really beautifully.”
A White House spokesperson echoed that sentiment, emphasizing Trump’s experience as both a competitive golfer and a successful developer. According to the administration, the goal would be to improve the facilities while preserving public access for everyday Americans.
People familiar with internal discussions say Trump’s broader vision includes elevating East Potomac into a championship-caliber venue capable of hosting professional tournaments and international events — bringing prestige, tourism, and investment to the nation’s capital.
Critics argue such a shift would conflict with the Links Trust’s mission, which prioritizes low-cost access over elite competition. Supporters counter that modernizing a neglected federal asset does not mean excluding the public — especially when managed efficiently.
As expected, Democratic lawmakers in the D.C., Maryland, and Virginia region have reacted sharply. Several have accused the president of pursuing a personal project, while others claim the move reflects broader concerns about federal authority.
Behind the scenes, the dispute is increasingly headed toward the courtroom. Sources familiar with the situation say the Links Trust has retained legal counsel from prominent Washington-area firms as it prepares for a potential lease termination.
Under the terms of the agreement, the National Park Service must provide written notice of alleged violations and allow at least 45 days for corrective action. The default notice was reportedly issued on October 29. As of now, no formal termination has been served.
That leaves both sides in limbo — and Washington insiders expect the conflict could soon escalate into a full legal battle.
If the lease is canceled, it would represent yet another major confrontation between President Trump and the D.C. political establishment. Supporters see a president willing to challenge bureaucracy and defend federal property. Opponents warn of disruption.
Either way, the outcome could permanently alter one of Washington’s most iconic public spaces — and serve as another example of Trump’s readiness to take on entrenched power in the nation’s capital.