Trump Names Conservative Commentator Katie Zacharia as New White House Press Secretary

Key points

• Katie Zacharia, 41, has been named the next White House press secretary by President Trump, succeeding Karoline Leavitt.
• Zacharia currently serves as a senior communications adviser for Trump Media & Technology Group and previously worked at the Department of Homeland Security.
• Karoline Leavitt, who left the White House in late August, has joined Fox News as an on-air contributor.
• Zacharia is set to start her new role on Monday, though the date of her first press briefing has not been announced.
• The selection process was reportedly rapid, with Zacharia not being considered until the previous week after other candidates were disqualified for criticizing the president.

Background

The White House press secretary role has seen recent turnover, with Karoline Leavitt departing in late August. Prior to this, the administration appointed a young partisan reporter as Assistant Press Secretary amid media access disputes. The current appointment follows a period of public relations challenges, with Trump expressing frustration over the administration's ability to communicate its achievements ahead of the midterm elections.

How outlets are covering it

NBC News and CNN report that Trump confirmed the appointment on Friday, praising Zacharia's loyalty and media presence. CNN notes that the selection was expedited after higher-profile candidates were disqualified for past criticism of the president. CNBC highlights Zacharia's role at Trump Media and her position as general counsel for Fix California, a conservative group. The Daily Beast confirms her age and background, noting her brief tenure under Kristi Noem at the Department of Homeland Security. All sources agree on the replacement of Leavitt and Zacharia's start date, but differ in emphasis: NBC and CNN focus on the political vetting process, while CNBC details her professional affiliations.

Why it matters

The appointment of a conservative commentator as press secretary signals a continued shift toward media-friendly figures within the administration. It may influence how the White House manages public messaging and media relations, particularly ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. The rapid selection process suggests a prioritization of loyalty over traditional journalistic experience, potentially affecting the tone and content of future press briefings.

What to watch

Zacharia is expected to begin her duties on Monday. The White House has not yet announced the date of her first press briefing. Karoline Leavitt is set to join Fox News as an on-air contributor in November. The administration may face scrutiny over the vetting process and the qualifications of the new press secretary.