Trump Names Katie Zacharia as New White House Press Secretary to Replace Karoline Leavitt

President Trump announced Friday that Katie Zacharia will become the next White House press secretary, selecting the conservative commentator and longtime political supporter to replace Karoline Leavitt, who stepped down in August to spend more time with her family.

The appointment fills one of the administration’s most visible positions following several weeks without a permanent press secretary. Zacharia, an attorney and experienced political communicator, has worked with the Trump administration, appeared regularly on conservative television and advised the president’s social media company.

Trump confirmed the decision in a Truth Social announcement, praising Zacharia’s loyalty and involvement in his political campaigns. The president highlighted her work in battleground states during the 2024 election and expressed confidence that she would effectively represent his administration.

The president also praised Zacharia’s longstanding support for the MAGA movement, describing her as a committed supporter who has remained involved in Republican politics for years. He said he expects her to work effectively with journalists, administration officials and the American public.

Zacharia responded by thanking Trump for the appointment, describing the opportunity to serve as White House press secretary as the honor of a lifetime. She pledged to communicate the administration’s accomplishments and work with reporters covering the White House.

The incoming press secretary currently serves as a senior communications adviser to Trump Media & Technology Group, the company responsible for operating Truth Social. Her work has included political messaging and communications strategy associated with the president’s media platform.

Earlier this year, Zacharia briefly served as a spokesperson at the Department of Homeland Security under then-Secretary Kristi Noem. Her tenure ended shortly after Markwayne Mullin replaced Noem as the department’s leader in March.

Zacharia previously explained that the demands of traveling between California and Washington had placed significant pressure on her family. A mother of four, she cited those responsibilities when discussing her departure from the federal agency.

Her professional background also includes work with Fix California, a conservative organization founded by Trump ally Ric Grenell. The group focuses on advancing conservative political initiatives in California, where Republicans have struggled to regain statewide influence.

Zacharia has served as an adviser and legal representative for the organization while maintaining a presence in conservative media. She has appeared frequently on Fox News and Newsmax, discussing national politics, immigration enforcement and the Trump administration’s policy agenda.

The incoming press secretary earned her undergraduate degree and law degree from Pepperdine University. Her early political experience included an internship with the Republican National Committee and work in the White House Office of Political Affairs during President George W. Bush’s administration.

Her appointment follows Leavitt’s decision to leave the White House after the birth of her second child in May. Leavitt announced in August that she wanted to devote more time to her husband and two young children after serving as the administration’s chief spokesperson since January 2025.

Leavitt made history when she became the youngest White House press secretary at age 27. She had previously worked in Trump’s first administration and served as a prominent spokesperson during his successful 2024 presidential campaign.

Trump praised Leavitt when announcing her departure, thanking her for her service and describing her as one of his most trusted aides. He also indicated that she would remain involved in Republican politics and continue serving as an outside adviser.

The White House press secretary is responsible for communicating the president’s positions, answering questions from journalists and coordinating the administration’s public messaging. The position regularly involves televised briefings, media interviews and responses to major domestic and international developments.

Zacharia’s selection comes as the administration continues addressing major issues involving immigration, national security, economic policy and international conflicts. Her responsibilities will include explaining the White House’s decisions and responding to questions about the president’s priorities.

The appointment also places another longtime Trump supporter in a senior communications position. Zacharia’s existing relationships within conservative political circles and her experience appearing on national television will be important parts of her transition into the role.

The administration has not announced a specific date for Zacharia’s first formal White House press briefing. Her appointment nevertheless ends the search for Leavitt’s successor and establishes a new spokesperson for the remainder of Trump’s second term.