Trump Taps Katie Zacharia As His New Press Secretary

Screenshot via YouTube

The New York Times reported on Friday that Katie Zacharia has been chosen to replace Karoline Leavitt as the new White House press secretary, according to two people familiar with the decision. Zacharia previously worked at the Department of Homeland Security and is a conservative media personality.

CNN’s Alayna Treene quickly confirmed the news, adding, “Trump in recent days called a number of his close allies and advisers to seek their opinion of Zacharia, Karoline Leavitt, a person familiar with the discussions told CNN.”

Zacharia has long been a regular guest on Fox News and currently works at Fix California, Trump special envoy Ric Grenell’s organization that promotes conservative causes in the state. She worked as a spokesperson at DHS in early 2026, but left after Markwayne Mullin took over as secretary.

The New York Post added that Zacharia’s presence in the Trump White House could be seen as part of a dynamic shift in the West Wing. “While at DHS, she was reported to be close to then-Secretary Kristi Noem and her special adviser Corey Lewandowski. If Zacharia gets the position, it could upend the dynamics of Trump’s inner circle, due to Lewandowski and Grenell long-standing distaste for White House chief of staff Susie Wiles,” reported Emily Goodin at the Post.

Zacharia is a mother of four children based in California.

Trump later confirmed the reports on Truth Social, writing, “It is my Great Honor to have just appointed, as Press Secretary, Katie Zacharia. Katie currently serves as Senior Communications Advisor to Truth Social (Trump Media & Technology Group), where she has been outstanding! A native of California, Katie previously served as Spokesperson and Deputy Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs at the Department of Homeland Security.” He concluded:

Katie is a distinguished Graduate of Pepperdine University, and the Pepperdine Caruso School of Law, an attorney, and a frequent Commentator on outlets, including Fox News and Newsmax. She was previously involved in my Campaigns, assisting in key Swing States, where we won 7 out of 7. She has an unblemished record of support, and has been a loyal and brilliant supporter, right from the beginning. She is, likewise, a devoted fan and member of MAGA! I am confident that Katie will deliver strong results for our Country as the next White House Press Secretary, as she has the respect of, and will work fantastically with, the Media, the American People, and my Administration. Katie is replacing the fabulous Karoline Leavitt, who did a fantastic job as Press Secretary. Good luck Katie! President DONALD J. TRUMP

This is a developing story and has been updated.

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