Particle.news

Download on the App Store

Trump Orders Staffer Out of Oval Office After Phone Disruption During Signing Event

Available footage does not clearly identify who was removed.

U.S. President Donald Trump talks to journalists after signing executive orders in the Oval Office at the White House on August 25, 2025 in Washington, DC.  (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)
Image
Image
Image

Overview

  • During an Aug. 25 Oval Office session to sign multiple executive orders, a noisy cell phone interrupted President Trump as he fielded questions, including about the government buying a stake in Intel.
  • Trump stopped mid-answer, asked, "Who is that back there?" and said, "Alright, get out of the room," as laughter was heard and a door closed.
  • The person’s identity is not clear from recordings of the event, though the Daily Mail named staff secretary Will Scharf; other outlets reported that identification remains unverified.
  • Scharf’s routine presence at signings reflects his role managing executive orders and handling documents for the president.
  • Coverage noted Trump has previously removed or admonished aides for on-camera disruptions, including a 2019 incident involving Mick Mulvaney coughing during an interview.