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Politics · October 19, 2026

DOJ tells judge that golf course won't close, despite Trumps's insistence after trees cut down

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A federal judge, U.S. District Judge Ana Reyes, recently withdrew an order that would have required the Department of Justice to name career attorneys who supported a specific court filing regarding the East Potomac Golf Links renovations. This reversal followed a contentious six-hour hearing characterized by tense exchanges between Reyes and Associate Attorney General Stanley Woodward. The legal dispute stems from a lawsuit by the DC Preservation League seeking to block President Trump’s plan to transform the public course into a championship venue, amid concerns over recent tree removals and whether the administration is bypassing required regulatory approvals.

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Reported across the spectrum

  • Judge Ana Reyes withdrew her order requiring the DOJ to identify career attorneys who signed onto a specific brief.
  • The hearing lasted over six hours and involved tense exchanges between the judge and DOJ officials.
  • Associate Attorney General Stanley Woodward requested Reyes recuse herself, which she denied.
  • The lawsuit was brought by the DC Preservation League and two golfers against the Trump administration's renovation plans.
  • Hundreds of trees were recently removed from East Potomac Golf Links.
  • The National Park Service claims tree removal was part of a 2019 plan, while plaintiffs argue it is related to Trump's redevelopment.

Reported by only some outlets

  • President Trump referred to Judge Reyes as a 'crazed lunatic' on Truth Social.
  • Greg Wischer, deputy chief of staff to Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, testified he was unaware of plans to start construction on November 15 despite Trump's social media claims.
  • Plaintiff attorney Abbe Lowell previously represented Hunter Biden.
  • Judge Reyes mentioned she does not play golf, referring to it as 'a good walk ruined.'

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