Katie Zacharia, the newly appointed White House press secretary, made her initial appearance before reporters on Tuesday. Her session was brief, lasting only 14 minutes, as she took a few questions before concluding the meeting. She succeeds Karoline Leavitt, who transitioned to a role at Fox News Channel.
Zacharia, previously a conservative commentator for President Donald Trump’s social media company, expressed her intention to “amplify” Trump’s message. She emphasized that Trump is “his own best spokesperson.” During the session in the James Brady Press Briefing Room, she directed reporters to ask the president questions on the South Lawn as he departed for a campaign trip, saying, “I am going to end it because President Trump is heading out to Marine One for our historic trip to Alaska.”
Her prepared statement touched on Trump’s recent campaign rallies and policies concerning energy, tariffs, and immigration. Trump, who appointed her, praised Zacharia as “a loyal and brilliant supporter.” Her experience includes a stint as a spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security and commentary roles at Fox News and Newsmax.
Zacharia’s appointment aligns with her previous efforts to advocate for Trump. She communicated her satisfaction in continuing this role within the government. Her first question came from Breitbart News, a right-wing outlet with growing influence. Zacharia plans to maintain the “new media” rotation implemented under her predecessor to diversify the media presence at news briefings and within the White House press pool.
In a significant revelation, Zacharia announced that Trump had requested the resignation of Kimberly Guilfoyle, the U.S. ambassador to Greece. Allegations of improper and potentially illegal conduct had surfaced against Guilfoyle. Zacharia commented, “She has been a wonderful asset to the team, and we wish her well.”
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