Federal judge blocks Trump plan to close East Potomac Park

Court order halts park closure

US district judge Ana Reyes issued a ruling Saturday that barred the government from moving forward with the closure for at least two weeks. The decision comes after President Trump stated on October 18 that the site would close for fifteen months to build an eighteen-hole golf course designed by Tom Fazio. Reyes determined the administration violated federal laws by trying to meet an arbitrary deadline for shutting down the historic public space near the Jefferson Memorial.

Legal battle over park rules

The lawsuit was brought by the DC Preservation League, which argues the redevelopment violates regulations and statutes protecting historic sites. Democracy Forward represents the preservation group alongside two local residents who fear the changes will make the course unaffordable for daily users. Judge Reyes noted that removing hundreds of trees without notice has damaged the government's credibility in this specific case.

Judge denies recusal request

Justice Department lawyers demanded Reyes step aside from the case, accusing her of overstepping authority and belittling their attorneys. She denied the request to recuse herself despite ongoing accusations regarding her conduct during heated confrontations with government officials. An ethics investigation into whether lawyers misled the court about timelines is currently underway while the Interior Department waits for further developments.