Katie Zacharia Named New White House Press Secretary

Donald Trump announced Friday that Katie Zacharia will be the new White House Press Secretary, succeeding Karoline Leavitt. Zacharia, 42, is a lawyer and a familiar face on cable news, known for her conservative viewpoints.

She is married to Hollywood producer Tyler Zacharia, and they have four children. Zacharia's political career began as an intern for the Republican National Committee. She earned her undergraduate degree from Pepperdine’s Seaver College and her law degree from its Caruso School of Law, after which she pursued a career in corporate and political advocacy.

During the George W. Bush administration, Zacharia worked in the White House Office of Political Affairs. She also spent three years in China as outside counsel for the World Bank.

Prior to this appointment, Zacharia worked as a communications adviser for Trump Media and Technology Group, the company behind Truth Social. Earlier this year, she served as a spokeswoman for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for six weeks before departing in March. Reports at the time suggested her exit was linked to her ties with Corey Lewandowski, though Zacharia stated that the constant travel between Washington D.C. and her home in California was the reason for her departure.

Zacharia has been open about the backlash she has received for her support of Donald Trump, particularly as a self-described conservative in California. She recounted an incident at a gym where wearing a Trump hat led to a confrontation and subsequent requests from the gym owner to refrain from wearing it, which she refused.

Trump confirmed the appointment on Truth Social, describing Zacharia as an "outstanding" individual with an "unblemished record of support" and a "devoted fan and member of MAGA."

Leavitt stepped down at the end of August to spend more time with her two young children, leaving the position vacant for over a month. Trump reportedly consulted with Leavitt before selecting Zacharia for the role.