Trump names staff secretary Will Scharf as new White House counsel
President Donald Trump announced that Will Scharf will replace David Warrington as White House counsel starting Sept. 1.
Donald Trump disclosed that Will Scharf, currently serving as staff secretary and former head of the National Capital Planning Commission, will become the White House counsel on Sept. 1, taking over from David Warrington. Scharf has a background as a federal prosecutor and has acted as Trump's lawyer in multiple matters, including Supreme Court appearances. Warrington is leaving the administration to pursue a private-sector position.
The counsel’s office advises the president on legal and policy issues, interacts with the Justice Department, and handles pardons, judicial appointments, and congressional inquiries. The timing of the shuffle aligns with the approaching midterm elections, during which Democrats have pledged to intensify investigations into the administration. The announcement was posted on Trump’s Truth Social account.
Why it matters
A new White House counsel could shape the administration's legal strategy ahead of the midterms and ongoing investigations.
How the sides frame it
MODERATE AGREEMENTLeft-leaning coverage emphasizes David Warrington’s role in expanding presidential power, while centrist coverage highlights Will Scharf’s involvement in the $400 million ballroom project and praises his credentials.
LEFT
Frames the shake-up as the departure of a lawyer who helped push the limits of presidential power and notes the ballroom project connection
CENTER
Frames the appointment as a merit-based promotion of a staff secretary who secured the $400 million ballroom project and is praised for being tough, strong, and loyal
The left emphasises
- Warrington “helped push the limits of presidential power”
- Trump’s announcement of Warrington’s departure
- Will Scharf succeeding Warrington
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