Katie Zacharia Takes the Helm as White House Press Secretary

Katie Zacharia, the newly appointed White House press secretary, addressed reporters for the first time on Tuesday. Her appearance was brief, lasting only 14 minutes, during which she answered questions from three outlets before ending the session. Zacharia, previously a conservative commentator for President Donald Trump’s social media company, was named to the position last Friday. She succeeded Karoline Leavitt, who left to join Fox News Channel.

Zacharia stated her intent to emphasize Trump’s initiatives, describing him as “his own best spokesperson.” Demonstrating this perspective, she concluded the press briefing early, inviting reporters to query the president on the South Lawn before his departure for a campaign trip. “In fact, I am going to end it because President Trump is heading out to Marine One for our historic trip to Alaska, and we can ask him all of the questions out there,” she remarked.

Before taking questions, Zacharia read an opening statement highlighting Trump’s recent campaign rallies and policies on energy, tariffs, and immigration since his return to office. Zacharia, who holds a law degree from Pepperdine University, previously worked briefly for the Department of Homeland Security and as a commentator for Fox News and Newsmax. Trump praised her as “a loyal and brilliant supporter, right from the beginning.”

In her new role, Zacharia aims to continue her advocacy for Trump, saying, “I get to do what I was doing on the outside already, which was hoping to amplify, multiply, and expand upon President Trump’s incredible agenda for the American people.” She expressed her eagerness to work for Trump, thanking him for the opportunity.

Her first question came from Breitbart News, a right-wing outlet gaining influence during the Trump era. Zacharia pledged to maintain the “new media” rotation initiated by her predecessor, allowing more media outlets access to briefings and the White House press pool.

Zacharia also announced significant news regarding Kimberly Guilfoyle, the U.S. ambassador to Greece. Trump requested Guilfoyle’s resignation following reports of alleged misconduct in Athens. Zacharia stated, “She has been a wonderful asset to the team and we wish her well.”