Washington, D.C. – U.S. District Judge Ana Reyes on Monday extended a court‑ordered injunction that bars the Trump administration from removing or damaging any additional trees at the century‑old East Potomac Golf Course. The order requires the government to give ten days’ written notice before making any “irreparable modification” to the course’s features while the lawsuit proceeds.
Legal background
The injunction follows a lawsuit filed by the D.C. Preservation League and two local golfers who argue the proposed renovations would cause irreversible harm to the park’s historic landscape. Judge Reyes, appointed by former President Joe Biden, previously ordered a pause on work until at least Oct. 26 and now requires the administration to seek court approval before any further action.
Administration’s plans
President Donald J. Trump announced on Oct. 18 that the golf course would close for 15 months starting Nov. 15 for a major redevelopment, despite the pending legal challenge. The plan includes extensive tree removal and redesign of the 106‑year‑old facility. A day later, the White House indicated that work would begin immediately.
Judge’s comments
Judge Reyes expressed surprise that the government asked her to “not to believe the sitting President” and to disregard his statements. She noted the court’s role is to uphold the rule of law, not to act as a spokesperson for trees. Reyes also criticized the administration for cutting down at least 400 trees over a holiday weekend with little notice to the plaintiffs.
Response from plaintiffs
Democracy Forward President & CEO Skye Perryman, co‑counsel for the plaintiffs, called the ruling “a big win that will rightly protect East Potomac Park from further irreparable harm.” The organization said the decision will halt the work while the case continues.
Broader context
The East Potomac project is part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to reshape historic federal lands, including proposals for a large ballroom at the White House, a massive arch, and naming rights at the Kennedy Center. Critics argue these initiatives reflect a partisan agenda that overlooks preservation concerns.
The White House has not yet responded to requests for comment on the extended injunction.
Original reporting: WPBF (Treasure Coast / Hearst) — read the source article.
