A US federal judge has ordered the Trump administration to stop tree-cutting and other work affecting Washington’s historic East Potomac Golf Course until October 26. The order follows a dispute over the removal of hundreds of trees at the public park, which President Donald Trump wants to turn into a major golf venue.
The lawsuit was filed by the DC Preservation League and two local golfers seeking to stop the renovation plans. “What has happened has cost the government all credibility with me. Trump wants to transform East Potomac Golf Course into a high-end venue capable of hosting major tournaments. Democracy Forward, which is representing the plaintiffs alongside other counsel, welcomed the judge’s decision.
At Monday’s hearing, Reyes sharply criticised the government’s actions and said they had damaged her trust in its lawyers. “Every single time I have given the government the benefit of the doubt and every single time I made absolutely clear that I want notice,” she said. In a June social media post, he said the finished course could host events including the US Open, Ryder Cup and PGA Championship. The group said the court had stepped in to stop what it called a “mad rush” to change the public recreation space.
US District Judge Ana Reyes issued the order on Tuesday, a day after questioning the government’s handling of the work and its failure to give proper notice to the court and those challenging the renovation, according to The Associated Press (AP).
