Trump Appoints Orthodox Jew Will Scharf as White House Legal Advisor

President Donald Trump announced the promotion of Will Scharf, formerly White House Staff Secretary, to the position of White House Legal Advisor and Assistant to the President. Scharf, a former federal prosecutor and one of Trump's personal attorneys, played a key role in the legal team that secured a Supreme Court ruling on presidential immunity. Known for his Orthodox Jewish lifestyle, Scharf observes daily tefillin, keeps kosher, and attends Chabad synagogue services, gaining attention for his religious commitment within the administration.

Scharf previously served as president of the Chabad student organization at Princeton University and participated in various Jewish events at the White House, including Hanukkah, Purim, and Passover celebrations. Before joining the current administration, he was involved in the confirmation processes of Supreme Court Justices Brett Kavanaugh and Amy Coney Barrett and unsuccessfully sought the Republican nomination for Missouri Attorney General.

His new role places him among the top legal advisors in the administration, providing counsel on constitutional, legal, and policy matters, including pardons, judicial appointments, legislation, and congressional investigations. At the recent White House Hanukkah reception, Scharf led a blessing, prompting Trump to humorously remark on his strong Jewish identity. Trump praised Scharf on Truth Social, highlighting his toughness, intelligence, patriotism, and respect for the law, and expressed confidence in his performance as the White House Legal Advisor.