Trump names staff secretary Will Scharf as new White House counsel

Donald Trump announced a leadership change in the White House legal office on Sunday, naming staff secretary Will Scharf as the new White House counsel and assistant to the president, effective September 1. Scharf will replace David Warrington, who is leaving the administration to join the private sector. Warrington had previously served as Trump's personal counsel and as a lawyer for his 2024 campaign.

Trump highlighted that Scharf previously worked as a federal prosecutor and represented him in several legal cases, including before the Supreme Court. Scharf also chaired the National Capital Planning Commission, the body that approved construction of the White House ballroom project.

"Will is Tough, Strong, and Smart! He also loves our Country, and respects the Law," Trump wrote on Truth Social, adding that Scharf would do a great job in the new role.

Timing ahead of midterms

The reshuffle in the counsel's office comes just months before the midterm elections, in which Trump's Republican party will fight to retain control of Congress. Democrats have pledged to pursue investigations into Trump and his administration should they win in November.

The White House counsel's office advises on legal and policy matters tied to the presidency, serves as the main point of contact with the Justice Department, and handles presidential pardons, judicial appointments and legislative review. It also helps manage congressional investigations into the administration and lawsuits filed against the president in his official capacity.

Trump had appointed Scharf to chair the National Capital Planning Commission in July 2025, the executive branch agency overseeing construction and major renovations of government buildings in the capital region. The commission gave final approval to Trump's ballroom project in April, but a divided federal appeals court ruled Friday that construction must halt because Congress had not authorized it. Trump has said he will appeal to the Supreme Court. Construction has already progressed and is visible rising above ground on the White House's east side.