Judge Orders Trump Administration to Halt DC Golf Course Work

A federal court order has temporarily halted tree cutting at East Potomac Golf Course in Washington after U.S. District Judge Ana Reyes challenged the Trump administration's conduct during a court hearing on Monday, October 12, 2026. The 24-hour restriction affects work at the historic golf course, which President Donald Trump has included in his plans to reshape the nation's capital.

Reyes issued the order following a three-hour hearing that grew contentious as the judge criticized the government's actions over the holiday weekend. According to The Associated Press, she accused the administration of deceiving her through its conduct during that period.

The order specifically pauses tree cutting at East Potomac Golf Course for 24 hours. The court's intervention temporarily interrupts work at the historic Washington site while the dispute involving the administration's plans continues.

East Potomac Golf Course has become part of Trump's broader plans to remake Washington. The course's historical significance and the administration's proposed changes have placed the site at the center of the legal dispute.

The Associated Press reported that Reyes sharply rebuked the government during Monday's hearing before issuing the temporary order. The available report did not provide further details about the administration's response or the next steps in the case.