Trump's new press secretary Katie Zacharia has eventful 14-minute debut: 5 moments that stood out

Zacharia began her first briefing by thanking Trump for appointing her and outlining the administration's priorities, including the economy, energy production and border security. “I have wanted to work for him for a very long time,” she told reporters, adding that she looked forward to working with the White House press corps. She also highlighted Trump's recent campaign appearance in Youngstown, Ohio, and his upcoming travel schedule ahead of the midterm elections. Her prepared remarks lasted approximately eight and a half minutes before she invited questions.

Zacharia's first question came from Breitbart News, whose reporter asked whether she would continue Leavitt's initiative to provide access to newer media outlets. “My predecessor, Karoline Leavitt, did an incredible job,” Zacharia responded. She confirmed that the administration would retain the designated new-media seat and expand the initiative where possible. Zacharia subsequently took questions from Fox News and the Daily Mail. Although the session was brief, she used the exchange to signal continuity with Leavitt's approach to new-media access.

Fox News correspondent Peter Doocy asked Zacharia about her responsibilities as press secretary, particularly with the midterm elections approaching. Zacharia said she hoped to communicate the administration's accomplishments more widely, describing Trump as “his own best spokesperson.” Doocy then turned to foreign policy, asking, “Has the US stopped sharing intel with Ukraine?” “I'll have to get back to you on that,” Zacharia replied. The exchange was one of the few policy questions during her debut and left the intelligence-sharing issue open for clarification.

Asked how she planned to balance her White House responsibilities with raising four children, Zacharia spoke about the importance of family time and her husband's support. During her answer, she inadvertently referred to her husband as “my president” before correcting herself. She laughed off the slip and continued explaining that her family would relocate from California to Washington. Zacharia also credited Leavitt with offering advice on balancing work and motherhood, describing her predecessor as a source of support.

Zacharia concluded the briefing after approximately 14 minutes, explaining that Trump was preparing to depart for Alaska and would be available to answer questions outside near Marine One. The session also produced a significant announcement: Zacharia confirmed that the administration had asked US Ambassador to Greece Kimberly Guilfoyle to resign, while thanking her for her service. Although reporters continued calling out questions as Zacharia wrapped up, she directed them toward the president's forthcoming appearance.