Local Politics · Washington, DC
A federal judge in Washington, D.C., opened a formal inquiry Friday into whether Trump administration attorneys misrepresented facts during litigation over plans to close and renovate East Potomac Golf Links near the National Mall. In a parallel case three miles away, another judge questioned the government's push for final approval by Nov. 5 of a proposed 250-foot arch near Arlington National Cemetery. The proceedings test claims of executive authority as the administration pursues projects reshaping federal areas in the capital.
Housing & Development · Washington, DC
The Justice Department filed notice confirming that President Trump's plans to renovate East Potomac Golf Course into a championship-level facility are proceeding, with the course closing November 15, 2026. The National Park Service will submit a rendering designed by Tom Fazio to the National Capital Planning Commission on October 30 for review at its December 3 meeting. A preliminary injunction issued Oct. 26 by U.S. District Judge Ana Reyes temporarily bars removal of additional trees and requires 10 days' written notice before any irreparable modification to the course while a lawsuit by the DC Preservation League and two golfers is active. The National Links Trust, which currently operates the course, will cease operations there as of Nov. 15 under a new lease agreement.