In a strategic move that could foreshadow potential legal conflicts ahead, President Donald Trump announced the appointment of Will Scharf, his staff secretary and former federal prosecutor, as the new White House counsel. Beginning September 1, Scharf will replace David Warrington, who is departing for the private sector. Known for his tenacity, intelligence, and loyalty to the country, Scharf has represented Trump in various legal matters, including at the Supreme Court. The shift comes amidst a critical political juncture, with midterm elections looming in November, where Trump's Republican Party is aiming to maintain control of Congress. In the event of a Democratic victory, investigations into Trump and his administration are likely. As White House counsel, Scharf will advise on legal and policy matters related to the presidency, manage congressional investigations, and handle presidential pardons, among other responsibilities. During Trump's first term, Scharf played a crucial role in confirming judges and justices, including U.S. Supreme Court Justices Brett Kavanaugh and Amy Coney Barrett. In the period following Trump's presidency, Scharf joined his legal team, representing him in a high-profile election interference case brought by special counsel Jack Smith. The case reached the Supreme Court, which ruled that presidents enjoy immunity from criminal prosecution for official acts. Scharf's appointment follows Todd Blanche, another Trump lawyer, who was recently confirmed as attorney general. As White House staff secretary, Scharf managed papers crossing the president's desk and was present during executive order signings. Trump named him chair of the National Capital Planning Commission in July 2025, granting him jurisdiction over government buildings in the region. The commission approved Trump's controversial $400 million ballroom project, but a federal appeals court ruled on Friday that construction must halt due to lack of congressional approval. Trump has vowed to appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court, with construction already well underway near the White House.