Trump names Will Scharf White House counsel.

President Donald Trump named Will Scharf as his new White House counsel on Sunday, replacing David Warrington who is leaving after nearly eight years in the role. Scharf, a former federal prosecutor and Trump campaign lawyer, will take over on September 1. The president announced the move on Truth Social, calling Scharf “tough, strong, and smart.”

The shakeup comes as Trump faces mounting legal pressures, including criminal prosecutions, civil lawsuits, and investigations into his businesses and election interference efforts. Warrington, a former military judge advocate, has served since Trump’s first term, overseeing legal strategy during high-stakes moments like the first impeachment and multiple post-election legal battles. His departure follows reports of tensions with Trump’s inner circle over legal priorities. Scharf’s appointment signals a shift toward a more aggressive legal posture ahead of the 2024 election and potential post-presidency legal challenges.

Scharf, 44, previously worked as a federal prosecutor in Missouri and advised the Trump campaign on election-related litigation. He also served as a legal adviser to Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey, a staunch conservative who has aligned closely with Trump’s legal and political strategies. Scharf’s background in election law and litigation suggests Trump is preparing for an escalation in legal fights, both domestically and abroad. The move also reflects Trump’s preference for loyalists who prioritize political outcomes over institutional norms.

The transition raises questions about how Scharf will navigate the White House’s legal team amid ongoing investigations by special counsel Jack Smith, state attorneys general, and congressional committees. His tenure will likely focus on shielding Trump from legal exposure while advancing his political agenda. Scharf’s arrival also signals a consolidation of power among Trump-aligned lawyers, sidelining more traditional legal voices. With Election Day nearing, the new counsel will play a critical role in shaping Trump’s legal defense and campaign strategy.