Trump announces staff secretary Will Scharf will be his new White House counsel
President Donald Trump has appointed staff secretary Will Scharf as the new White House counsel, effective September 1. Scharf, a former federal prosecutor who has represented Trump in legal matters, will replace outgoing counsel David Warrington.
Why it matters
The appointment comes at a critical time as the administration prepares for potential congressional investigations following the upcoming midterm elections. Scharf's role will be central to managing the legal challenges facing the president and the administration's policy agenda.
U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Sunday (August 9, 2026) that his new White House counsel will be Will Scharf, the staff secretary who as the Trump-appointed head of the National Capital Planning Commission helped secure approval for the $400 million ballroom project.
Mr. Trump said that, beginning September 1, Mr. Scharf will be replacing David Warrington, who will be leaving the administration to join the private sector. Mr. Trump noted that Mr. Scharf previously served as a federal prosecutor and represented him in a number of cases, including at the Supreme Court.
“Will is Tough, Strong, and Smart! He also loves our Country, and respects the Law,” Mr. Trump wrote on Truth Social. “Will Scharf will do a great job as White House Counsel!”
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