US President Donald Trump claims East Potomac Golf Links could be transformed into a PGA Tour event course, but few share his delusion.
During a visit to the municipal course in Washington, D.C., Trump was accompanied by Interior Secretary Doug Burgum and architect Tom Fazio, who has designed over 200 courses, with 46 making the top 200 in the country.
Fazio’s portfolio includes renovations at Quail Hollow, parts of the PGA National championship course in Palm Beach, and Shadow Creek, which hosted the Michael Jordan Celebrity Invitational. Meanwhile, Rory McIlroy's participation in just nine PGA Tour events in 2026 raises eyebrows about his compliance with the tour's minimum requirements.
Trump boldly stated that East Potomac Golf Links, located about a 16-minute drive from the White House, could one day host prestigious events like the U.S. Open and Ryder Cup.
However, skepticism looms over the feasibility of his vision. East Potomac spans over 220 acres, while Shinnecock dedicated over 45 acres for grandstands and logistics during the recent U.S. Open.
Access to East Potomac is limited to one road, unlike Shinnecock’s six, creating a logistical nightmare for any major tournament.
In a lengthy Truth Social post, Trump described East Potomac as a "dilapidated, worn out, and very dangerous and outdated Golf Course."
He announced plans for a full renovation starting September 1, promising it would become "one of the Greatest Golf Courses anywhere in the World" while remaining open to the public.
The course features two 9-hole layouts, a par 72 18-hole course, a driving range, and various amenities including a pro shop and food services.
Trump’s renovation proposal has drawn skepticism from the local golf community. Concerns arise that redesigning the course could jeopardize its historic status as one of the first racially integrated public golf courses in the 1940s.
Despite Burgum's assurances of "championship-quality golf at affordable rates," local golfers and preservation advocates fear that a Fazio redesign will limit tee times and access for the community.
One user on X expressed frustration: "I’m jobless, going hungry, and have no health care. I don’t CARE about a golf course." Another criticized Trump's focus: "It’s easy to see how he ran so many businesses into bankruptcy and failure. Doesn’t pay attention to important things."
Trump’s plans would eliminate about 25% of the holes, removing a nine-hole course and extending the layout to 7,600 yards. The shortest tees would still measure around 5,740 yards, posing challenges for beginners and casual players.
East Potomac has never hosted a PGA Tour event but previously held the 1923 U.S. Amateur Public Links Championship. It currently hosts competitions like the National Links Trust Championship and D.C. Classic.
