Trump Names Will Scharf as White House Counsel Ahead of Midterm Elections

President Donald Trump has named Will Scharf as the next White House counsel, bringing the former federal prosecutor and Republican legal figure into one of the administration’s most important legal positions ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.

Scharf, who currently serves as an assistant to the president, will replace White House counsel David Warrington. Trump announced the appointment on Monday, praising Scharf’s legal background and describing him as a trusted member of his administration.

The White House counsel plays a central role in advising the president on constitutional questions, executive orders, federal litigation and other legal matters. The position is expected to become particularly significant as the administration faces ongoing legal disputes over immigration, executive authority and other major policy initiatives.

Scharf previously served as Missouri’s solicitor general and ran unsuccessfully for Missouri secretary of state in 2024. He joined the Trump administration in 2025 and has since become one of the president’s prominent legal advisers. (aljazeera.com)

Trump’s decision comes as Republicans prepare for the November midterm elections, when control of Congress will be contested. The administration is also dealing with a number of high-profile legal battles that could influence Trump’s policy agenda during the second half of his presidency.

Warrington, the outgoing White House counsel, is expected to remain involved with the administration in a different capacity. Trump praised his service and legal work during his time in the White House.

Scharf’s appointment gives the administration a new senior legal adviser at a politically sensitive moment, with the White House expected to face continued challenges over presidential power and federal policy in the months leading up to the midterms.