Donald Trump declared on August 9, 2026, that Will Scharf, currently White House staff secretary, will become White House counsel and assistant to the president effective September 1, 2026 [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6]. Scharf will replace David Warrington, who is departing the administration to enter the private sector [1, 2, 3, 7, 4, 5, 6]. Trump praised Scharf as "Tough, Strong, and Smart," adding, "He also loves our Country, and respects the Law. Will Scharf will do a great job as White House Counsel!" [1].

Scharf’s background includes service as a federal prosecutor, clerking for two federal appeals court judges, work in private legal practice, and participation in Trump’s personal legal team during Supreme Court cases defending presidential immunity [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6]. He also chaired the National Capital Planning Commission starting July 2025, which approved Trump’s $400 million White House ballroom project [1, 3, 4, 5]. That project faced a federal appeals court injunction due to lack of Congressional approval [1, 3, 4].

Prior to joining the White House, Scharf ran unsuccessfully for attorney general of Missouri before Trump’s second term and was involved in controversial policy debates, such as opposing suspension of due process rights for undocumented immigrants in early 2025 [2]. Warrington previously worked as a personal counsel and campaign lawyer for Trump’s 2024 presidential race [1, 5, 6].

The White House counsel advises the president on legal and policy matters, including pardons, judicial nominations, legislation review, and investigations related to the administration [1, 3, 7]. White House chief of staff Susie Wiles congratulated Scharf publicly and thanked Warrington for his service, noting the counsel’s office helped secure 24 Supreme Court victories and the confirmation of 54 judges [6].

Trump’s announcement signals a leadership transition in the White House legal team, with Scharf taking up his new role starting September 1, 2026, marking the next chapter in advising the president on complex legal affairs [1, 6].