Former Representative George Santos has signaled his interest in becoming President Donald Trump’s press secretary. This follows the announcement that current press secretary Katie Zacharia would be leaving her position. On Friday night, Santos expressed his willingness to serve in the role, posting on social media: “Hey I’m not technically open for a job because I have one already…. butttttttt… I’d jump to serve POTUS as press secretary in a heart beat. Just saying.” However, there is no evidence that Santos is being considered for the position at this time.
Earlier, a White House official confirmed to Newsweek that Zacharia was “transitioning” out of the role after a brief tenure of just five days. Santos, who was expelled from Congress in 2023 and was later convicted of wire fraud and aggravated identity theft, had his sentence commuted by Trump in October 2025 after spending three months in prison.
Trump Advises Zacharia Amid Criticism
Zacharia’s brief time as press secretary was marred by criticism related to her legal background. During her first press briefing, questions arose about her claim of being a lawyer since she had not passed a U.S. bar exam. Despite this, Zacharia defended her qualifications, stating she had practiced international transaction law with appropriate credentials. She explained her law school background, having graduated from Pepperdine University’s law school and taken the bar exam in 2011, but did not pass because she planned to move to China. She also commented on getting married that same week.
Her legal background came under scrutiny during an interview with Fox News host Sean Hannity, an exchange which drew criticism from Santos, who accused Hannity of being judgmental. The State Bar of California confirmed with Newsweek that Zacharia was not licensed to practice law in California under her married or maiden name.
President Trump commented on the situation by advising Zacharia to “reconsider” her role. According to Trump, Zacharia had been mistreated by the media and should decide whether the position was suitable for her.
Zacharia expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve, praising Trump in an Instagram post for his qualities and contributions to America.
Conservative commentator and part-time Trump adviser Laura Loomer has also expressed interest in the press secretary role, suggesting herself as a potential candidate on social media.
Potential Successors For the Press Secretary Role
The current administration faces the task of finding a new press secretary following Karoline Leavitt’s departure in late August to focus on family commitments. Several potential successors have been mentioned. These include CNN commentator Scott Jennings, White House deputy press secretary Anna Kelly, Communications Director Steven Cheung, and conservative author Elizabeth Pipko. Trump has endorsed Jennings as a credible candidate and recommended White House adviser Margo Martin.
Prediction market Kalshi ranked Scott Jennings, Anna Kelly, and former Fox News host Maria Bartiromo among the top contenders. According to a report from Axios, two sources claimed Trump preferred Bartiromo to replace Leavitt. Bartiromo, known for her influential presence on television, departed Fox News in September after over a decade with the network. Reasons for her departure were not disclosed, leading to speculation about her future endeavors.
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