A federal judge expressed strong objections towards officials from the Trump administration on Monday regarding the removal of numerous trees from a historic golf course in Washington D.C. The incident threatened the government’s standing with the court.
During a hearing concerning ongoing work at East Potomac Golf Links, U.S. District Judge Ana Reyes, appointed by former President Joe Biden, raised her voice multiple times. Reports from various accounts on social media highlighted her concerns over the National Park Service’s tree removal, which is part of the administration’s renovation plans.
Judge Reyes criticized the removal of over 500 trees, indicating that this action severely damaged the government’s credibility in court. According to social media posts, she was disappointed, stating, “I trusted you all not to do precisely what you have done,” and expressed confusion over the government’s behavior.
When attorneys from the Justice Department claimed ignorance of the tree-cutting details, Judge Reyes retorted, “Ignorance is not an excuse.” She issued a halt on further tree removal until at least 7 a.m. Tuesday and warned, “If that order is violated by two seconds, there are going to be contempt proceedings.”
The controversy is centered around the Trump administration’s plan to transform the 106-year-old public golf course into a facility suitable for championship-level play.
This article is considered breaking news, and further updates are expected.
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