President Donald Trump says he is in no hurry to appoint a new White House press secretary after Katie Zacharia’s sudden departure following just five days in the role.
Speaking to reporters, Trump joked about the high-profile position, saying, “Everybody who takes it becomes a star.” His remarks came after Zacharia’s brief tenure ended amid scrutiny over her first press briefing and questions about her professional credentials.
Zacharia began the job on Monday and held her first White House press briefing the following day. Her performance quickly attracted criticism, while reports also raised questions about her claims of being an attorney. She later acknowledged that she had not passed the California bar exam.
On Friday, Trump said he had advised Zacharia to reconsider the position, suggesting the demands and media scrutiny might make the job difficult for her. He said he did not think she could ever be happy in the role and indicated that he would leave the decision to her.
However, reports later said Zacharia was leaving the position. Her departure left the White House facing the task of finding another spokesperson to handle daily briefings, respond to reporters’ questions and communicate the administration’s policies.
The press secretary position is one of the most visible jobs in the White House, often placing its holder at the center of political controversies and intense media scrutiny. The role can bring national recognition, but it also requires frequent public appearances and defending decisions made by the president and his administration.
Trump has not announced a replacement or provided a timeline for filling the vacancy. For now, his comments suggest he is willing to take his time before choosing the next person to step behind the White House briefing-room podium.