Trump bypasses chief of staff to install new White House press secretary
President Donald Trump appointed Katie Zacharia as press secretary without consulting chief of staff Susie Wiles, sparking a fresh power clash.
President Donald Trump selected conservative television commentator Katie Zacharia to become the White House press secretary, ignoring chief of staff Susie Wiles’ recommendation. The appointment, set for Zacharia’s first briefing on Tuesday, is being interpreted as another episode in the escalating rivalry between Trump and his longtime aide, dubbed the “Ice Maiden.” This mirrors prior incidents where Wiles discovered key nominations, such as the ICE director pick, only after Trump posted about them on Truth Social.
Zacharia, a California-born lawyer who has defended the administration on several outlets and worked on Trump’s 2024 campaign, replaces the role previously held by Karoline Leavitt. While Wiles had favored Scott Jennings, Trump personally called Zacharia to offer the job. Zacharia has expressed a desire to build a constructive relationship with Wiles, even as past disputes with DHS official Lauren Bis linger. No additional staffing changes have been confirmed.
Why it matters
The clash shows how Trump is reshaping his inner circle, which could alter White House messaging and policy influence.
How this story developed
- Oct 8 Ambassador-to-Greece nominee reportedly asked donor for $100k wire to personal account
- Oct 11 The State Department Inspector General has opened a probe into the ambassador’s conduct.
- Oct 13 President Trump said a decision on Guilfoyle’s removal could be made this week.
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