Trump Appoints Will Scharf as White House Counsel Starting September
President Donald Trump has named White House Staff Secretary Will Scharf to succeed David Warrington as the top administration lawyer. The transition, scheduled for September 1, comes as the executive branch prepares for potential congressional investigations following upcoming midterm elections.
Key takeaways
- Will Scharf will transition from White House Staff Secretary to White House Counsel on September 1, 2026.
- David Warrington is departing the administration to work in the private sector.
- Scharf previously led the National Capital Planning Commission during the approval of a controversial $400 million ballroom project.
- The appointment precedes midterm elections where the White House Counsel's office expects to manage increased congressional oversight.
What Happened
President Donald Trump announced on August 9, 2026, that Will Scharf will take over as White House Counsel effective September 1. Scharf, who currently serves as the White House Staff Secretary and assistant to the president, will replace David Warrington. Warrington is departing the administration to transition into the private sector after previously serving as personal counsel and a lawyer for the 2024 campaign.
Background
Scharf has served as a federal prosecutor and was part of the legal team representing the president in various cases, including matters brought before the U.S. Supreme Court. In July 2025, he was appointed chair of the National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC). In this capacity, Scharf oversaw the approval process for a $400 million White House ballroom project. While the NCPC gave final approval for the construction in April, a federal appeals court issued a ruling on August 7, 2026, to halt the project on the grounds that it lacked congressional authorization.
Why It Matters
The White House Counsel serves as the primary legal advisor to the presidency and acts as the lead liaison to the Justice Department. The office is responsible for reviewing legislation, managing judicial appointments, and handling presidential pardons. This leadership change occurs just months before midterm elections, as the administration anticipates potential congressional inquiries. The office will be responsible for managing any oversight investigations or lawsuits directed at the president in an official capacity.
Key Facts
- Will Scharf officially begins his tenure as White House Counsel on September 1, 2026.
- Outgoing counsel David Warrington is leaving the government for the private sector.
- Scharf concurrently served as Staff Secretary and Chair of the National Capital Planning Commission.
- The $400 million ballroom project overseen by Scharf is currently facing a legal stay following a federal appeals court ruling.
- The White House Counsel office manages the administration's response to congressional investigations and reviews all executive branch legislation.
Sources reviewed
Project Chintan independently synthesized and analyzed information cross-checked across the sources listed above.
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