DOJ Seeks to Disqualify Judge Ana Reyes in Golf Course Case

The judge ana reyes disqualification bid filed Friday by the Justice Department escalates the fight over President Donald Trump’s redevelopment of a historic Washington golf course, after the judge sharply rebuked the administration for cutting down hundreds of trees without notice.

The department filed two moves at once: an opposition to the plaintiffs’ request for a longer-lasting preliminary injunction, and a separate motion — signed by Associate Attorney General Stanley Woodward — seeking Reyes’s disqualification under 28 U.S.C. § 455(a), which covers appearances of partiality. The motion cites the judge’s treatment of government lawyers, her demands for testimony from senior executive officials, and remarks she has made in other cases involving the Trump administration. The DOJ also asked for the audio of Monday’s contentious hearing to be released publicly, arguing transcripts alone cannot convey the judge’s demeanor.

430 Trees and a Furious Judge

U.S. District Judge Ana Reyes of the District of Columbia had been overseeing a lawsuit by the D.C. Preservation League challenging the administration’s plan to overhaul East Potomac Golf Links. After the National Park Service removed roughly 430 trees over the holiday weekend — notifying the court only late Friday afternoon — Reyes summoned senior officials, excoriated government attorneys, and temporarily halted further tree removal. On Tuesday she extended the halt through October 26, finding the plaintiffs were likely to succeed on their claim that the government skipped required environmental review under the National Environmental Policy Act.

The Government’s Counterattack

The administration argued in court papers that Reyes overstepped by compelling testimony from senior executive officials and by relying on evidence from what it called an improper judicial inquiry. The redevelopment is part of Trump’s broader vision for the capital — he has said the finished course could host major championships including the U.S. Open, the Ryder Cup, and the PGA Championship.

Source: The Washington Post