US judge halts tree-cutting at Trump's Washington golf course project

U.S. District Judge Ana Reyes extended an order on Monday to block the Trump administration's renovation plans for a century-old public golf course in Washington, D.C. The judge issued a preliminary injunction that temporarily prohibits the government from removing or damaging any additional trees on the East Potomac Golf Course.

The administration must provide 10 days' notice in writing for any "irreparable modification" to the course while the lawsuit remains active. Judge Reyes, nominated by Democratic President Joe Biden, emphasized that she remains impartial and will not be swayed by President Donald J. Trump's statements or actions regarding the golf course renovations.

The case began as a dispute over golf but has evolved into a broader legal battle, forcing the court to reconcile Trump's assertions with sworn testimonies from government employees and the arguments of senior Department of Justice attorneys. The Trump administration had announced plans to close the golf course for 15 months starting November 15, with redevelopment of the 106-year-old park and course.

Plaintiffs argue that the work is causing irreversible damage and expressed astonishment at the government's request for the judge to disregard Trump's plans.