Key facts
- Katie Zacharia has been named Donald Trump's new White House press secretary.
- Zacharia previously worked for Trump Media & Technology Group and the Department of Homeland Security.
- Zacharia will begin her new role on Monday.
- Her first press briefing was 14 minutes long and included an announcement about the resignation request for U.S. ambassador to Greece, Kimberly Guilfoyle.
- Critics questioned Zacharia's readiness for the role following her brief debut briefing.
Donald Trump has selected Katie Zacharia, a conservative commentator and former Department of Homeland Security official, to serve as his new White House press secretary. Zacharia, who has also worked for Trump Media & Technology Group and Truth Social, will begin her duties on Monday.
In announcing her selection, Trump praised Zacharia as a "loyal and brilliant supporter" who has been with him "right from the beginning." He highlighted her frequent appearances on Fox and Newsmax, as well as her work for his campaigns. Zacharia expressed her honor in serving Trump and the American people, stating her intention to "diligently and effectively amplify his successful agenda."
Zacharia's first press briefing as press secretary was notably brief, lasting only 14 minutes and featuring questions from three outlets. This brevity drew criticism from some journalists, commentators, and former White House officials, who questioned her readiness for the demanding role. CNN reported that White House officials and presidential advisers described the debut as "awkward" or "stilted." Former Biden communications director Kate Bedingfield called it a "rocky start," while former White House press secretary Jen Psaki likened the appearance to an "SNL skit."
Despite the criticism, Zacharia delivered a significant announcement during her briefing: the White House had requested the resignation of Kimberly Guilfoyle, the U.S. ambassador to Greece, amid allegations of misconduct. Zacharia also pointed to Trump's actions on energy policy, trade tariffs, and immigration. Former press secretary Ari Fleischer noted that the Guilfoyle announcement provided Zacharia with substantive news to convey.