Judge Reyes Orders Probe Into DOJ Handling of Golf Course Dispute

U.S. District Judge Ana C. Reyes opened a formal investigation on Friday into whether Justice Department officials misrepresented the administration's plans for the East Potomac Golf Course in Washington, DC. The probe follows a three-hour hearing in which Reyes questioned Associate Attorney General Stanley Woodward on his conduct in the litigation.

Reyes challenged Woodward on whether the administration attempted to evade court review. She pointed to a last-minute notice provided before crews felled hundreds of trees at the site. Woodward argued that the administration had not yet established a formal renovation plan, despite President Donald Trump's repeated statements that he was moving forward with the project.

"Let's not play games anymore, Mr. Woodward," Reyes said as Woodward stood at the lectern. The judge, a nominee of former President Joe Biden, read from professional conduct rules for lawyers practicing in Washington while eyeing Woodward. She stressed provisions concerning the making of factual assertions in court, signaling that sanctions were a possibility.

Woodward told the court he had "endeavored to answer the court's questions as honestly and effectively as I can." He argued that some of the judge's inquiries were not relevant to the legal issues in the case. Reyes asked, "Are you done? Can you answer my question now?" The hearing produced audible laughter and snickers when Woodward appeared to retract comments he had just made.

At one point, Woodward suggested that the removal of more than 400 trees on October 10 was part of a plan to update the course. This position contradicted previous administration denials. Reyes turned to the transcript to read back Woodward's earlier comments and asked, "Are you kidding me right now?" The inquiry will likely be handled by a special master appointed by the court.

Reyes stated she was not finding that DOJ lawyers had misrepresented facts but would consider the possibility. The investigation could lead to sanctions. The case stems from a challenge by preservationists and golfers who want to keep the course as it is. Trump has described his renovation goals as creating a "world class" facility and has attacked Reyes on social media as a "crazed lunatic."

Earlier this week, Reyes blocked further tree removal in a 70-page opinion. She required the Interior Department to notify the court before making other irreparable changes to the site. That decision is currently being appealed. The judge also ordered the attorneys to retain all documents related to the case.