White House Counsel – Trump Names Will Scharf to Succeed David Warrington
White House Counsel –US President Donald Trump has appointed White House staff secretary Will Scharf as the next White House counsel, bringing a new legal adviser into one of the administration’s key positions. Scharf is scheduled to formally assume the role of Assistant to the President and White House Counsel on September 1, replacing David Warrington, who is leaving the administration for the private sector.
Trump announced the change on Sunday through a post on Truth Social. In his announcement, the president praised both Warrington’s work and Scharf’s performance in his current position, while outlining the experience he believes makes Scharf suitable for the senior legal role.
Scharf to Take Over White House Legal Role
Scharf currently serves as White House staff secretary, a position that involves managing the flow of documents and information reaching the president. He has also chaired the National Capital Planning Commission.
Trump said Scharf had performed strongly as staff secretary and expressed confidence in his ability to take on the responsibilities of White House counsel. The new appointment will place Scharf at the centre of the administration’s legal strategy and presidential legal affairs.
Before joining the White House, Scharf worked in several areas of the legal profession. According to Trump, he represented the president in a number of legal cases, including proceedings before the US Supreme Court during the Biden administration.
Background in Federal Prosecution and Private Practice
Scharf’s professional background also includes experience as a federal prosecutor and private-sector attorney. He previously worked in private legal practice and served as a law clerk for two federal appeals court judges.
His academic credentials include an undergraduate degree from Princeton University and a law degree from Harvard Law School. Fox News also reported on his clerkships with two federal appellate judges.
Trump highlighted Scharf’s legal education and professional experience while announcing the appointment, describing him as someone who combines courtroom knowledge with experience in government and private practice.
The appointment gives Scharf a broader role in advising the president on legal matters and handling issues involving the White House and the executive branch.
Warrington to Leave for Private Sector
David Warrington, who currently serves as White House counsel, will depart the administration as part of the transition. Trump credited Warrington with doing an outstanding job as White House counsel and also noted his earlier involvement with the president’s 2024 campaign.
Warrington has previously worked as Trump’s personal attorney and legal adviser and played a role in the legal side of the 2024 presidential campaign.
CNBC reported that Warrington is now preparing to move into the private sector. His departure will bring an end to his tenure as the administration’s top White House legal adviser.
Trump Expresses Confidence in New Counsel
In announcing Scharf’s appointment, Trump praised his legal background and described him as capable, strong and committed to the country and the law.
The change will take effect September 1, when Scharf officially assumes the White House counsel position. Until then, Warrington will continue in his current role.
The transition comes as the Trump administration continues to shape its senior leadership team, with the White House counsel expected to play an important role in advising the president on legal questions, executive actions and other matters involving the administration.