A federal judge expressed strong disapproval at Trump administration officials during a Monday hearing regarding the unauthorized removal of trees from the East Potomac Golf Links, a historic site in Washington, D.C. Judge Ana Reyes criticized the government’s actions, claiming that this has severely damaged its credibility in court.
Reports on social media indicated that Judge Reyes, appointed by former President Joe Biden, raised concerns repeatedly when addressing the National Park Service’s decision to begin removing the trees for renovation without court approval. More than 500 trees have been cut down despite her explicit instruction to receive notification before proceeding with major demolition.
Judge Reyes conveyed her frustration, stating that the government’s actions have cost them their credibility in this case. “I trusted you all not to do precisely what you have done,” Reyes commented, struggling to understand the rationale behind the government’s decision.
Justice Department attorneys revealed their lack of awareness regarding the specific tree-removal plan. Reyes dismissed this defense, asserting, “Ignorance is not an excuse.” She issued an order halting further tree removal until at least 7 a.m. Tuesday, threatening contempt proceedings if her order is violated by even a brief margin.
The controversy surrounds the Trump administration’s proposal to upgrade the public course, which is over a century old, into a championship-level golf facility.
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