Judge Extends Block on Trump Golf Course Renovation Plans

A federal judge has agreed to extend an order blocking the Trump administration’s renovation plans for the East Potomac Golf Course, a century-old public course in the nation’s capital. U.S. District Judge Ana Reyes issued a preliminary injunction that temporarily bars the government from removing or damaging any additional trees on the property.

The administration must provide 10 days' written notice before making any “irreparable modification” to any “forms or features” of the course while the lawsuit remains active. Reyes rejected the administration’s request for her to recuse herself from the case, stating that she speaks “only for the rule of law.”

Reyes expressed astonishment that the government asked her to disregard President Donald J. Trump’s statements about his plans for the golf course renovations, noting the need to reconcile presidential assertions with sworn testimony from government employees and arguments from Department of Justice attorneys.

On Oct. 18, Trump announced on social media plans to close the golf course for 15 months, starting Nov. 15, and redevelop the 106-year-old park and course. This announcement came despite a legal challenge by the D.C. Preservation League and two golfers. The following day, Trump posted that the work would begin immediately.

Reyes, who was nominated to the bench by President Joe Biden, had previously ordered the administration to suspend work on the project until at least Oct. 26. The plaintiffs challenging the project claim the renovation work is inflicting irreversible damage. During a hearing, the judge criticized the government after workers removed at least 400 trees over a holiday weekend with little notice to the plaintiffs.

The course renovation is part of the Trump administration's broader efforts to reshape historic sites in Washington, including plans for a new White House ballroom and a large memorial arch.