Federal Judge Blocks Trump Administration's Attempt to Seize D.C. Public Golf Course

A federal judge rebuked the Trump administration on Monday, blocking its alleged attempt to seize and demolish a public golf course in Washington, D.C. U.S. District Judge Ana Reyes responded to an emergency request from the DC Preservation League to prevent the administration from taking over the East Potomac Golf Links.

During the hearing, Reyes criticized White House lawyers who argued that their plans involved only the removal of dead trees.

“We can’t have bulldozers taking down trees … and no one has come to me first,”

The DC Preservation League expressed concerns that the White House might move quickly to demolish parts of the course, citing the speed at which President Trump took over the Kennedy Center. The preservation group’s attorney told the court that they did not trust the administration’s intentions.

When Reyes asked a White House lawyer if the golf course would be closed, the attorney replied,

“No closure notice has been issued ... but it’s still under consideration at this point.”

“I didn’t hear a ‘NO,’ your honor!”

The White House’s lawyer insisted that they would follow the rules and had not yet closed anything. However, Reyes was shown a note indicating that closure signs were already posted on the golf course. The administration’s counsel had no response, and Reyes expressed concern about a potential “surprise” move by the White House.

On Friday, NOTUS reported that the White House planned to take over the course, begin landscaping and tree clearing, and later initiate major renovations. A golf course architect, Tom Fazio, had reportedly been selected, according to an unnamed source. While the administration denied the report, the DC Preservation League filed an emergency motion to block any construction.

The preservation group’s lack of trust in the administration stems from past actions, including Trump’s demolition of the East Wing of the White House without legal approval for his ballroom project, despite public assurances against large-scale changes. He has also affixed his name to several Washington buildings and government organizations without congressional or legal approval.

While Reyes’ decision may temporarily slow Trump’s plans for the golf course, it does not appear to deter his broader intentions. The president seems determined to reshape Washington, D.C., in his own image, regardless of legal or public opposition.