President Trump names Katie Zacharia new White House Press Secretary
President Donald Trump announced on October 9, 2026 that Katie Zacharia will serve as the new White House press secretary, succeeding Karoline Leavitt.
The appointment comes as the administration prepares for a busy midterm election cycle and seeks a seasoned communicator to manage daily media interactions. Zacharia, a 41‑year‑old mother of four from California, has been described by the president as a loyal and brilliant supporter who will deliver strong results for the country.
Trump posted on Truth Social, “It is my Great Honor to have just appointed, as Press Secretary, Katie Zacharia,” adding that she has an “unblemished record of support” and is a “devoted fan and member of MAGA.”
Zacharia thanked the president in a separate post, writing, “Serving President Trump and the American people at this critical 250‑year mark is the honor of a lifetime.” She said she looks forward to working with the White House press corps and reporters across the nation to “get that record out.”
Before joining Trump Media & Technology Group as a senior communications adviser, Zacharia spent a brief period in 2026 as deputy assistant secretary for public affairs and spokesperson at the Department of Homeland Security under former Secretary Kristi Noem. She also served in the George W. Bush White House’s Office of Political Affairs and assisted Trump’s 2024 campaign in seven battleground states.
Zacharia holds a Juris Doctor from Pepperdine University and the Pepperdine Caruso School of Law and frequently appears as a commentator on Fox News, Fox Business, and Newsmax. Her media experience includes a recent appearance on The Sean Spicer Show alongside fellow commentator Jennifer Van Laar.
Karoline Leavitt, who made headlines for her confrontational style, left the administration in August to spend more time with her family and has since taken a position as a Fox News contributor.
Zacharia is expected to assume her duties immediately, coordinating daily briefings and shaping the administration’s messaging as it navigates legislative battles and upcoming elections.
