Trump Criticizes Judge, Claims Staffer Hit by Golf Ball at DC Course

Former President Donald Trump has criticized the federal judge who temporarily halted his administration's plans to renovate the East Potomac Golf Links in Washington, D.C. Trump asserted on social media that a White House staffer was "hit violently in the chest" by a golf ball at the course, which he described as "highly dangerous, dilapidated, and absolutely disgusting."

Trump, who made the remarks in a late-night post on Truth Social, stated that U.S. District Judge Ana Reyes, a Biden appointee, would be held personally responsible if anyone is harmed or killed on the course. Reyes had previously issued a temporary restraining order on Monday, barring the Interior Department from redeveloping the 106-year-old park, which includes the golf course and public trails.

The lawsuit, filed by the DC Preservation League and two golfers, argues that the proposed renovations would "irreparably destroy a priceless piece of American history."

The conflict over the East Potomac Golf Links has been ongoing for months. Trump announced plans last year to overhaul the course, which is owned by the federal government and managed by the National Park Service. Critics, including the preservation league, accused Trump's administration of violating environmental laws. The administration had already been ordered to halt redevelopment after removing hundreds of trees without public notice.

Despite the court's intervention, Trump previously announced on social media that the park would close by November 15 and that renovations for his "world championship" course would last 15 months. He also referred to Judge Reyes as a "crazed lunatic."

In her latest order, Judge Reyes mandated that no further trees be removed and required 10 days' notice before the administration could close the course or make additional modifications to the grounds. The White House has been contacted for an update on the condition of the staffer who was reportedly hit by a golf ball.