Trump Taps Will Scharf as White House Counsel, Replacing Warrington

President Donald Trump announced on Sunday that Will Scharf, currently serving as staff secretary, will become the new White House counsel starting September 1. Scharf will replace David Warrington, who is leaving the administration to join the private sector.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump praised Scharf as "Tough, Strong, and Smart," adding that he "loves our Country, and respects the Law." The president expressed confidence that Scharf "will do a great job as White House Counsel."

Scharf previously served as a federal prosecutor and represented Trump in several legal matters, including before the Supreme Court. He was also appointed by Trump in July 2025 to chair the National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC), the agency overseeing construction and major renovations of government buildings in the Washington region.

Under Scharf's leadership, the NCPC granted final approval in April for a $400 million ballroom project on the White House grounds. However, a divided federal appeals court ruled on Friday that construction must halt because Congress had not authorized the project. Trump has vowed to appeal the decision to the Supreme Court. The structure has already begun rising above ground on the east side of the White House.

The change in the White House counsel's office comes at a politically sensitive time, just months before the midterm elections. Republicans, led by Trump, are seeking to retain control of Congress, while Democrats have pledged to launch investigations into the administration if they regain power.

The White House counsel advises the president on legal and policy matters, serves as the main liaison with the Justice Department, handles pardons, reviews judicial appointments and legislation, and coordinates responses to congressional inquiries and lawsuits against the president in his official capacity.