Presidential Golf & White House Duty
- Golf and the White House have maintained a close relationship for decades. Former President Donald Trump, an avid golfer, regularly played at Mar-a-Lago.
- For trump, golf is more than recreation; it's part of his approach to leadership.
- Trump visits the driving range, meets fans and watches Round 2 of LIV Golf Washington DC 2023 (Photo by Kyle Mazza/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)
Discover how the pursuit of presidential golf, from Donald trump’s active game at mar-a-Lago to the fairways of past leaders, reveals the personal side of power. This compelling narrative,offered by News Directory 3,explores golf’s unique role in presidential leadership,highlighting Trump’s integration of the sport with business and contrasting him with figures like Eisenhower and Nixon. Uncover the different reactions and public perceptions that each president faced, showing how golf mirrored their presidencies. what strategic role does golf play for current and future commanders-in-chief? Discover what’s next.
Presidential Golf: A History of Leisure and Leadership
Updated June 08, 2025
Golf and the White House have maintained a close relationship for decades. Former President Donald Trump, an avid golfer, regularly played at Mar-a-Lago. Seth Meyers joked that Trump spent a third of his presidency on the golf course, suggesting it might be better if that increased to two-thirds.
For trump, golf is more than recreation; it’s part of his approach to leadership. He once quoted golfer Sam Snead to justify accepting a $400 million Qatari plane. Real estate developer Witkoff noted that Trump uses golf outings to conduct business, a practice he learned from Sen. Lindsey Graham.
Former U.S.President Donald J. Trump visits the driving range, meets fans and watches Round 2 of LIV Golf Washington DC 2023 (Photo by Kyle Mazza/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)
Historically, presidents have approached golf differently. Teddy Roosevelt cautioned William Howard Taft against being photographed golfing, fearing it would appear he wasn’t taking his duties seriously. In contrast, Woodrow Wilson played golf extensively, even in the snow, but avoided business discussions on the course.
Dwight Eisenhower, an avid golfer, faced criticism but remained unfazed. He installed putting greens at the White House and camp David and regularly golfed with “The Gang.” Richard Nixon, despite being a decent golfer, was often the subject of jokes. He once quipped dismissively about Vice President Spiro Agnew, saying he “likes to play golf.”
“Watergate Secrets and Betrayals” will be released on August 8, the 50-year anniversary of President nixon’s resignation.
What’s next
The tradition of presidential golf is highly likely to continue, with each leader bringing their own style and approach to the game, balancing leisure with the demands of the office.