Emmet Flood, a White House lawyer whose focus is the ongoing investigation into Russian meddling, will step in as White House counsel temporarily following the departure of Don McGahn, the White House said.

Flood’s appointment as assistant to the president and White House counsel became effective Thursday morning, White House press secretary Sarah Sanders announced.

“Mr. Flood will serve in the role until Pat Cipollone comes on board as Counsel to the President, at which time Mr. Flood will return to being Special Counsel to the President,” Sanders said in a statement. “President Trump has a great deal of respect for both individuals and is glad to have them on his team.”

McGahn, 50, served as White House counsel from the start of President Trump's administration, but was expected to leave his post after the confirmation of Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court.

Kavanaugh was confirmed by the Senate this month after a contentious confirmation fight that was roiled by allegations of sexual misconduct.

McGahn officially left the Trump administration Wednesday.

Trump confirmed in an interview with the Associated Press this week that Cipollone, a Washington lawyer and former Justice Department official, would replace McGahn.

It’s unclear when Cipollone will officially join the White House.