# Trump's New White House Counsel Led $400 Million Project Approval The newly appointed counsel played a key role in securing approval for Trump's major project. - **Source:** [Fortune](https://fortune.com) - **Published:** 2026-08-09 - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/65c79f9d-f4ae-47a1-8d22-1a4ca767fac8 ## Trump's New Counsel Donald Trump announced Will Scharf as the new White House Counsel. Scharf previously served as chair of the National Capital Planning Commission. In that role, he helped secure approval for Trump's $400 million ballroom project. Scharf also worked as a federal prosecutor and represented Trump in Supreme Court cases. ## Project Status Trump's ballroom project received final approval from the National Capital Planning Commission in April. However, a federal appeals court ruled construction must stop due to lack of Congressional approval. Trump vowed to appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court. The project has already begun rising above ground on the White House's east side. ## Counsel's Office Role The White House Counsel's Office advises on legal and policy matters related to the presidency. It serves as the primary contact with the Justice Department. The office handles presidential pardons, judicial appointments, and legislation review. It also coordinates congressional investigations and lawsuits against the administration. ## Political Timing This change comes at a critical time months before midterm elections. Republicans aim to maintain Congressional control, while Democrats promise investigations into Trump's administration if successful in November. The counsel's office plays an increasingly important role during this period. ## Scharf's Background Will Scharf was appointed chair of the National Capital Planning Commission in July 2025. This commission oversees construction and major renovations of government buildings. Scharf is an experienced attorney who represented Trump in various cases. Trump described him as 'Tough, Strong and Smart.' ## Project's Legal Process The $400 million ballroom project was halted by a federal court citing lack of Congressional approval. This decision highlights power struggles between executive and legislative branches. The Trump administration continues legal battles to proceed. This process tests constitutional authority boundaries. ## Administration Changes Scharf replaces David Warrington, who is moving to the private sector. This change is part of Trump's strategy to strengthen his legal team. The counsel's office plays a crucial role in the president's legal challenges. Scharf's appointment represents the next phase of this battle. ## Political and Legal Implications This appointment and ongoing project process present an important test for U.S. separation of powers. The power struggle between Congress and the executive intensifies during election season. The project's fate will demonstrate judicial oversight over the executive. This case could set precedent for future similar projects. ## Sources covering this story - https://fortune.com/2026/08/09/trump-white-house-counsel-commission-400-million-ballroom-project/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._