Judge to open ethics inquiry into Trump D.C. muni renovation

U.S. District Court Judge Ana Reyes announced plans on Friday to investigate whether the Trump administration violated ethics rules regarding the East Potomac Golf Links renovation. The court inquiry will focus on whether Department of Justice attorneys intentionally misled the court regarding plans to close the municipal course in Washington, D.C. The inquiry follows an abrupt policy shift after government lawyers initially denied plans to shut down the facility.

President Donald Trump has partnered with golf course designer Tom Fazio to transform the 36-hole municipal course into a high-end facility capable of hosting major tournaments. However, local golfers and preservation groups oppose the project, arguing it threatens Walter Travis's historic design, green spaces, and affordable access for the public.