White House Counsel Will Scharf on Thursday identified the Supreme Court’s decision in Trump v. Slaughter as the judicial victory he is most proud of helping secure. Speaking at the Federalist Society’s National Lawyers Convention in Washington, Scharf framed the June ruling as a correction of a “historic constitutional wrong,” emphasizing its significance in expanding presidential authority over independent federal agencies.
The Trump v. Slaughter decision, issued in June, marked a landmark ruling that reinforced the administration’s efforts to bring executive branch agencies under greater presidential control. Scharf’s remarks were delivered during a fireside chat at the Federalist Society’s 2026 convention, held at 11:30 a.m. ET on November 12.
The ruling has been widely discussed within legal and political circles as a pivotal shift in the balance of power between the executive branch and independent regulatory bodies. Advocates of the decision argue it restores constitutional principles by reasserting presidential oversight, while critics contend it undermines the independence of agencies tasked with safeguarding public health, environmental standards, and financial regulations.
The Federalist Society, a conservative legal organization, hosted the event where Scharf’s comments were made. The organization has historically supported judicial interpretations that limit agency discretion and strengthen executive authority. The convention, held annually, serves as a platform for legal professionals to discuss emerging trends in constitutional law and administrative governance.