President Donald Trump has extended an offer to Katie Zacharia to become the new White House Press Secretary, a position that has remained open since Karoline Leavitt's departure at the end of August. This decision involving the conservative attorney and commentator was confirmed on Friday, October 9, by administration sources to several American media outlets.
Despite the offer, there has been no public confirmation from Zacharia regarding her acceptance. A White House official informed CBS News that the offer had been made, while Axios reported that she would take on the role if she agrees. The New York Times was the first to break the news about her selection.
Responsibilities Awaiting Zacharia
If Zacharia accepts the role, she would become a prominent public voice for the federal government, responsible for press briefings and daily communication from the White House.
Background on Katie Zacharia
Katie Zacharia is a lawyer, political strategist, and conservative commentator with extensive experience in media, political organizations, the private sector, and federal administration. She has appeared on networks such as Fox News, Newsmax, and CNN.
Her educational background includes a degree from Pepperdine University in California, where she graduated with a bachelor's degree in 2007 and a law degree in 2011. Notably, she is a member of Pepperdine's Dean's Council advisory board.
Zacharia's career involves legal work and nonprofit activities in China. According to a biography shared by Trumpettes USA, she worked in Beijing with Zhong Lun law firm, dealing with the World Bank and International Finance Corporation, as well as engaging in educational initiatives for migrant children.
Political Involvement and Experience
Her connection to Republican politics dates back to 2006 when she interned at the Republican National Committee during George W. Bush's presidency. Later, she worked with Fix California, a conservative organization led by Trump ally Richard Grenell, where she served in legal advisory and leadership roles.
Brief Tenure at Homeland Security
In February 2026, Zacharia joined the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) as Deputy Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs and spokesperson amid a shift in the agency's communication leadership. Her arrival was reported by Reuters and other outlets.
Her tenure was short-lived. In an April 3 interview with CNN, Zacharia explained that internal restructuring altered her expected role. She also mentioned the challenges of balancing travel between Washington and California with family life, as she is a mother of four. Despite leaving, she expressed her commitment to publicly supporting the president's immigration policies.
Since June 2026, Zacharia has served as a senior communications advisor at Trump Media & Technology Group, the company associated with Trump that operates the Truth Social network, according to her professional profile cited by CBS and CNN.
Following Karoline Leavitt's Departure
The position became vacant when Karoline Leavitt, who served as press secretary during Trump's second term, stepped down to spend more time with her children. The White House officially announced August 27 as her last day in the role. Leavitt was the youngest person to hold this responsibility.
As reported by CiberCuba in August, Trump stated that Leavitt would continue to have a connection with his circle as an external advisor.
Before offering the position to Zacharia, Trump sought input from several close advisors, including Leavitt herself, according to CNN. The choice reflects a preference for a professional accustomed to publicly defending the president's positions, although the start date and formal acceptance are still pending confirmation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Katie Zacharia's Appointment
Who is Katie Zacharia?
Katie Zacharia is a conservative attorney, political strategist, and commentator with experience in media, political organizations, the private sector, and federal administration. She has been actively involved in Republican politics and has appeared on major news networks.
What role did Karoline Leavitt have before leaving?
Karoline Leavitt served as the White House Press Secretary during Donald Trump's second term. She left the position to spend more time with her children, but continues to be an external advisor to Trump's circle.