2-week halt keeps Washington golf project open as Trump blasts judge and administration vows appeal

Judge pauses course renovations

U.S. District Judge Ana Reyes issued a temporary restraining order Saturday, delaying work at East Potomac Golf Links for two weeks. The course was scheduled to close Sunday for 15 months of renovations.

The plaintiffs, the DC Preservation League and two local golfers, filed their legal challenge in February. They argued that closing the course and starting construction would harm them and the public interest.

Trump plans an expedited appeal

Trump criticized Reyes’ decision in a social media post Sunday and said his administration would appeal. He described the ruling as a “highly destructive and political decision.” Trump has argued that the course is in poor condition, posting photographs over the weekend. He called it “Trash Island” in a post about its state of disrepair.

Dispute over redevelopment plans

The plaintiffs say Trump’s plan would alter the accessible public course and make it unaffordable, a claim he has denied. Trump had announced that work would begin Sunday despite the lawsuit.

Other projects face court challenges

The order is in effect through Nov. 28. The golf course redevelopment is among several Washington projects Trump has promoted, including a memorial arch, a White House ballroom and work involving the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.

Reyes’ ruling is the latest court decision in challenges to Trump’s projects issued shortly before planned construction. Another judge recently delayed work on the arch for 14 days, shortly after a planning commission with Trump appointees approved the plans.