A former Pentagon official has broken her silence following rumors that Donald Trump mistakenly offered the White House press secretary position to UFC President Dana White, potentially confusing him with a former public affairs specialist for the Department of Defense also named Dana W. White.
The former Pentagon official addressed the speculation in a LinkedIn post, stating, "To everyone texting me congratulations: thank you, but you have the wrong Dana White." She added, "I've stood at a podium and taken questions from the Pentagon press corps. I have never stood in an octagon. I'd like to keep it that way."
The confusion appears to stem from a Saturday announcement on Truth Social by Trump, who stated, "I am pleased to announce that the Great Dana White, a violent Fighter and Warrior, has been offered the job of Press Secretary of the United States." Trump also suggested that White bring several UFC fighters to Washington D.C. to aid in defending against the "Lunatic Left."
While one White House aide suggested Trump was joking, internet users speculated that the former Pentagon official had been recommended for the position and Trump had erroneously offered it to the UFC president. No evidence has emerged to support claims that Trump confused the two individuals or that the former Pentagon spokeswoman was on a shortlist for the job.
UFC President Dana White appeared to entertain the possibility of taking the role when questioned by reporters in London, chuckling at the suggestion and stating, "I'm flying to Washington, DC, right now." He confirmed he would meet the president at the White House on Monday but added, "I've got a lot of jobs already."
The White House press secretary vacancy arose after the departure of Katie Zacharia, who held the position for five days in October. She was replaced by Karoline Leavitt, who stepped down in August. The mid-term election results, which saw Republicans suffer significant losses, have created a challenging period for Trump.
UFC President Dana White has been a supporter of Trump for years, with their friendship dating back to 2001. White has remained a vocal supporter and previously hosted a UFC event at the White House.