Judge pauses Trump’s East Potomac golf redevelopment

U.S. District Judge Ana Reyes issued a temporary restraining order on Saturday that halts any work on the East Potomac Golf Links for two weeks, delaying President Donald Trump’s plan to turn the historic Washington public course into a championship‑level facility.

What does the restraining order prohibit?

It bars the government from closing East Potomac Park and the golf course during the daily hours they were open as of Nov. 14, 2026, while allowing repairs under the existing preliminary injunction; the order remains in effect through Nov. 28, 2026 or until the court lifts it (NPR).

Why did preservation groups sue?

The DC Preservation League and two local golfers filed the February lawsuit claiming the redevelopment would alter the course’s public character and make it unaffordable, arguing that closing the site and starting construction would “irreparably injure plaintiffs and the public interest” (NPR).

How did the administration respond?

The Justice Department said the order does not stop planning for a world‑class golf course and pledged to “vociferously defend the Trump Administration’s agenda” (NPR). Trump, meanwhile, posted on social media that the judge “doesn’t want us to quickly and inexpensively fix up the Course” and promised a 50% discount for Washington‑area residents (NPR).