President Donald Trump has selected conservative commentator Katie Zacharia to become the next White House press secretary, bringing a new face to the administration’s communications team following Karoline Leavitt’s departure.
Trump announced the decision on October 9, praising Zacharia’s loyalty and experience in conservative media and political communications. The appointment places a Trump Media and Technology Group adviser in one of the administration’s most prominent public-facing roles. <Cite refs={[“turn934672search10″,”turn934672news2”]}/>
Who Is Katie Zacharia?
Zacharia is a lawyer and conservative political commentator who has appeared on television networks including Fox News, Newsmax and CNN. Since June, she has worked as a senior communications adviser at Trump Media and Technology Group, the company behind Trump’s social media platform, Truth Social.
Earlier in 2026, she spent approximately two months working as a spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security. She has also been involved with Fix California, a conservative organization founded by Trump ally Richard Grenell.
Zacharia earned her law degree from Pepperdine University and previously worked with Republican political circles. Her background combines legal training, political advocacy and media experience. <Cite refs={[“turn934672search10″,”turn934672news5”]}/>
Trump Praises His New Press Secretary
In announcing the selection, Trump described Zacharia as a loyal and strong supporter of his political movement. He also expressed confidence that she would work effectively with the media, the American public and his administration.
According to reporting, Trump consulted several allies and advisers during the selection process, including former press secretary Karoline Leavitt. Zacharia’s selection reportedly came together quickly after other potential candidates were considered. <Cite refs={[“turn934672news2″,”turn934672search10”]}/>
Karoline Leavitt Moves to Fox News
Zacharia is succeeding Karoline Leavitt, who left the press secretary position in August after becoming a prominent figure in Trump’s second administration.
Leavitt, who became the youngest White House press secretary in U.S. history at age 27, said she wanted to spend more time with her family. Fox News has announced that she will join the network as an on-air contributor beginning November 1.
During her tenure, Leavitt became known for combative exchanges with reporters and forceful defenses of the president’s policies. Her departure marks a change for a White House press operation that has frequently clashed with traditional news organizations. <Cite refs={[“turn934672news2″,”turn934672news7”]}/>
A Challenging Role Ahead
Zacharia will take on the job amid ongoing disputes over press access and the administration’s relationship with major media outlets. Restrictions affecting CNN, MS NOW and Politico have triggered legal challenges, while the White House’s approach to briefings and media access remains a subject of debate.
As the administration continues to defend its policies and respond to questions from reporters, Zacharia will be responsible for communicating the president’s agenda and managing daily interactions with the press.