Former aides warn new Trump press secretary may become political scapegoat
Former political advisers say Katie Zacharia, the new White House press secretary, is likely to be sacrificed if Republicans lose the midterms.
Katie Zacharia, the 41-year-old who succeeded Karoline Leavitt as White House press secretary, delivered a brief and troubled first briefing that drew sharp rebuke from former advisers. Patrick Riccards, who has served under multiple administrations, warned that she is being used as a sacrificial figure to absorb criticism before the midterms. Others, including Anthony Scaramucci and Sean Spicer, offered mixed commentary, with Scaramucci noting the demanding nature of the job and Spicer defending her performance.
Former Biden press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre also highlighted the preparation required for the role. The briefing lasted only 14 minutes, featured questions from three conservative outlets, and ended after announcing Ambassador Kimberly Guilfoyle's resignation. Critics also pointed to Zacharia's past social-media posts and questionable resume claims, while Trump praised her as "very good."
Why it matters
The appointment highlights the volatility of White House communications ahead of crucial midterm elections.
How this story developed
- Oct 8 Media outlets seek court order to keep White House press passes amid ban challenge
- Oct 9 The White House has extended the press secretary position to Katie Zacharia, pending her acceptance.
- Oct 10 Trump announced Katie Zacharia as the new White House press secretary.
- Oct 11 The Justice Department’s Antitrust Division has moved from considering to actively reviewing the broadcasters’ pool practices.
- Oct 11 Deleted social‑media posts by Zacharia containing extremist statements were uncovered.
- Oct 13 Katie Zacharia, President Trump's new press secretary, has repeatedly called herself a lawyer, but investigations found no evidence she is licensed to practice law.
- Oct 13 Zacharia held her first White House press briefing.
- Oct 14 The court issued a ruling that blocks the administration’s ban on the three outlets.
- Oct 14 Zacharia’s China‑based bar exam claim has prompted new scrutiny.
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