Trump Names Will Scharf White House Counsel — the Aide Who Chaired the Panel That Approved His $400 Million Ballroom

President Trump announced on August 9, 2026 that staff secretary Will Scharf will become White House counsel effective September 1, replacing David Warrington, who is leaving for the private sector. Scharf was one of Trump’s personal lawyers in the federal election-interference case that produced the Supreme Court’s 2024 presidential-immunity ruling, and Trump named him in July 2025 to chair the National Capital Planning Commission, which granted final approval in April to the $400 million ballroom project. “Will is Tough, Strong, and Smart,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.

The counsel advises on legal questions for the presidency, is the primary contact with the Justice Department, handles pardons and judicial appointments, and manages congressional investigations and suits against the president in his official capacity. Installing a former personal defense lawyer there two months before the midterms, with Democrats promising investigations if they take the House, places one person at the center of coming disputes over subpoenas, testimony and executive privilege. He joins Attorney General Todd Blanche among Trump’s personal lawyers in senior posts.

The appointment takes effect September 1, 2026 and requires no Senate confirmation. A divided appeals court ruled August 7 that ballroom construction must stop absent congressional approval; Trump has said he will appeal.