U.S. Judge Stops Tree Cutting at Donald Trump Golf Course Project

Court Order Issued

A U.S. federal judge ordered a halt to tree-cutting at a public golf course in Washington, D.C., following a lawsuit over Donald Trump's renovation project. District Judge Ana Reyes issued a 70-page order on Monday, October 26, 2026, stopping the removal or damage of additional trees at East Potomac Golf Links. The court also ordered defendants to provide ten business days of written notice before making any lasting changes to the park while the lawsuit continues.

Felled Trees

More than 500 healthy and nonhazardous trees have already been cut down at the 100-year-old course. Judge Reyes stated that the government cut down these trees without real notice despite knowing about the scheduled removal at least a week ahead. Local golfers and an environmental group opposed the project, arguing that the public course is a rare spot for affordable golf.

Trump's Reaction

Mr. Trump criticized the ruling on Truth Social, stating the judge had no right to hold up the project. He insisted the site would still close for renovation on November 15 and pledged to appeal the decision. Mr. Trump previously stated that construction would start in November to remodel the affordable public course into a facility that can host major championship-calibre events.

Context

Federal judges in the United States have the authority to issue temporary halts, known as injunctions, to pause government actions or construction projects while environmental and legal disputes are reviewed in court. Public parks and golf courses in Washington, D.C. often fall under federal management and oversight, making them subject to specific federal regulations and public lawsuits.