WASHINGTON – In a notable development within his administration, President Donald Trump announced on Sunday the appointment of Will Scharf as the new White House counsel. Scharf, who previously served as the staff secretary, is credited with spearheading the approval of a significant $400 million ballroom project while leading the National Capital Planning Commission, a role he held after being appointed by Trump.
Beginning September 1, Scharf will take over the responsibilities from David Warrington, who is transitioning into the private sector. Trump praised Scharf’s qualifications, highlighting his experience as a federal prosecutor and his representation of Trump in various legal matters, including cases that reached the Supreme Court. “Will is Tough, Strong, and Smart! He also loves our Country, and respects the Law,” Trump stated on Truth Social. “Will Scharf will do a great job as White House Counsel!”
This leadership change in the White House counsel’s office arrives at a critical moment, just months ahead of the midterm elections, where Trump’s Republican Party is aiming to maintain its congressional control. Democrats have indicated their intentions to launch investigations into Trump and his administration should they succeed in the elections this November.
The White House counsel plays a vital role in advising on legal and policy matters pertinent to the presidency. This office serves as the main liaison with the Justice Department, overseeing presidential pardons, judicial appointments, and legislative reviews. Additionally, it is responsible for managing investigations and legal challenges faced by the president during his official capacity.
During Trump’s first term, Scharf was instrumental in facilitating the confirmation of several judges and justices, including U.S. Supreme Court Justices Brett Kavanaugh and Amy Coney Barrett. After Trump’s departure from office, Scharf rejoined his legal team in October 2023, participating in the election interference case brought against Trump by special counsel Jack Smith, which was eventually taken up by the Supreme Court. The court ruled that presidents enjoy broad immunity from criminal prosecution for actions performed in office.
Scharf’s appointment is part of a broader trend of Trump rewarding his legal allies with prominent roles in his second administration. Recently, Todd Blanche, who represented Trump in a hush money trial, was confirmed as attorney general.
Prior to his current role, Scharf managed the flow of documents that came across the president’s desk as White House staff secretary. His responsibilities included being present during the signing of executive orders and providing context for the actions taken by Trump.
In July 2025, Trump appointed Scharf as chair of the National Capital Planning Commission, overseeing construction and significant renovations of government buildings in the Washington, D.C. area. The ballroom project, which received final approval from the NCPC in April, has recently faced legal challenges, with a divided federal appeals court ruling that construction must halt due to the lack of congressional approval. Trump has pledged to appeal this decision to the U.S. Supreme Court.
Despite these challenges, the ballroom project is progressing and has already begun to rise above ground on the east side of the White House, marking an ambitious endeavor for the Trump administration.
