Washington, D.C. — U.S. President Donald Trump has announced the appointment of Will Scharf, a Jewish attorney and current White House Staff Secretary, as the new White House Counsel and Assistant to the President. Scharf will formally assume the role on September 1, 2026, succeeding David Warrington, who is leaving to enter the private sector.
Trump praised Scharf on Truth Social, calling him “Tough, Strong, and Smart… He also loves our Country, and respects the Law.” The President added, “Will Scharf will do a great job as White House Counsel!”
Background on Will Scharf
- Birthplace & Upbringing: Born in New York, raised between NYC and northern Florida in a Modern Orthodox Jewish household.
- Education: Attended Princeton University, where he was active in the Center for Jewish Life and served as president of the Chabad Student Board. Later studied at Harvard Law School, leading the Federalist Society chapter.
- Career Highlights:
- Clerkship and law firm experience.
- Federal prosecutor.
- Counsel for Trump in Supreme Court cases.
- Helped secure approval for Trump’s $400 million White House ballroom project.
- Served as Staff Secretary in Trump’s second term.
Role of White House Counsel
The White House Counsel advises the President on legal and policy matters, including:
- Presidential pardons.
- Judicial appointments.
- Congressional investigations.
- Lawsuits against the President in his official capacity.
The position was first created in 1943 under Franklin D. Roosevelt, with Samuel Rosenman, also Jewish, as the inaugural counsel.
Political Context
Scharf’s appointment comes just two months before the November 2026 midterm elections, a period when Democrats have pledged to investigate Trump’s administration if they gain control of Congress. His legal expertise and loyalty to Trump are expected to be crucial in navigating potential challenges.
Credit: The Jewish Chronicle Subscribe to the JFN Website and to the JFN WhatsApp Channel
