Judge tells Trump officials not to cut trees at historic Washington golf course
AP News • • nation
Key Points:
- A federal judge instructed the U.S. government not to cut down more than 10 trees at a historic Washington golf course without prior notice amid a legal dispute involving President Donald Trump's planned renovations.
- The case was brought by the DC Preservation League, which filed an emergency petition to halt work at the East Potomac Golf Course, citing concerns over major renovations set to begin.
- Judge Ana Reyes declined to issue a temporary restraining order immediately but emphasized the need for communication between the National Park Service and government lawyers before removing trees.
- The complaint argues that the planned reconstruction would violate the 1897 congressional act that established East Potomac Park for public recreation and enjoyment.
- During the hearing, the National Park Service confirmed no renovation work had started yet, though a safety assessment was ongoing, and the judge requested notification if any closure signs were posted at the site.
