Will Scharf

Will Scharf, born in 1986, grew up in a Modern Orthodox Jewish household in New York City and North Florida. His upbringing instilled a strong commitment to Jewish observance, including keeping kosher, wrapping tefillin daily, and attending Shabbat services at his local Chabad synagogue. 

Scharf pursued a legal career, earning recognition as an assistant U.S. attorney. He later served as a senior adviser to Missouri Governor Eric Greitens, who resigned in 2018 amid allegations of misconduct. This role positioned Scharf at the intersection of public service and political strategy, setting the stage for his subsequent endeavors. 

In May 2023, Scharf co-founded Jews Against Soros, a conservative initiative countering allegations that criticism of billionaire philanthropist George Soros is inherently anti-Semitic. The group emphasized Soros’ funding of left-leaning causes and organizations critical of Israel, including those associated with the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement. Scharf argued that opposing Soros’ influence was vital to defending Jewish values and combating anti-Semitism, citing the philanthropist's perceived role in supporting groups antagonistic to Israel. 

Scharf entered electoral politics in 2024, running in the Republican primary for Missouri attorney general. His campaign highlighted combatting violent crime, protecting constitutional rights, and supporting former President Donald Trump. Despite receiving Trump’s endorsement, Scharf lost the primary to incumbent Andrew Bailey. The campaign faced challenges, including anti-Semitic attacks that falsely labeled him a Mossad agent. However, his vocal pro-Israel stance and conservative platform bolstered his standing within Jewish and Republican communities, aligning with the administration’s broader Middle East approach.

Following his defeat, Scharf joined Trump’s legal team, where he played a central role in high-profile cases, including a Supreme Court decision affirming presidential immunity. Trump praised Scharf’s contributions, crediting him with helping navigate complex legal battles. 

On November 16, 2024, President-elect Trump appointed Scharf as White House Staff Secretary.

“Will Scharf,” Ballotpedia. 
Jacob Kornbluh, “Will Scharf, co-founder of ‘Jews Against Soros,’ is Trump’s new White House staff secretary,” Forward, (November 18, 2024).
Ben Samuels, “Trump Taps anti-Soros Activist for Powerful White House Role,” Haaretz, (November 18, 2024). 
@willscharf, November 18, 2024.

Photo: @Will Scharf