Donald Trump announced on Sunday, August 9th, 2026, that Will Scharf, the staff secretary instrumental in obtaining approval for the $400 million White House ballroom project, will become White House counsel and assistant to the president. Scharf will replace David Warrington, who is leaving the administration to join the private sector, effective September 1st.

Warrington had served as personal counsel and lawyer for Trump’s 2024 campaign. Trump highlighted Scharf’s background as a former federal prosecutor and noted his representation of Trump in several cases, including those before the Supreme Court. Scharf also led the National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC), which approved the construction of the White House ballroom.

On Truth Social, Trump praised Scharf, stating, “Will is Tough, Strong, and Smart! He also loves our Country, and respects the Law. Will Scharf will do a great job as White House Counsel!”

This change in the White House counsel’s office occurs just months before the midterm elections, where Trump’s Republican party aims to maintain control of Congress amid Democratic promises to investigate Trump and his administration if they win in November.

Trump appointed Scharf as chair of the NCPC in July 2025. The ballroom project received final approval from the NCPC in April 2026; however, a divided federal appeals court ruled that construction must halt because Congress had not approved the project.

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