Katie Zacharia 'transitioning out' of her role as White House press secretary

Published October 16, 2026 10:26 AM PDT

Press secretary Katie Zacharia is expected to be "transitioning out" of her role with the White House.

Speaking with reporters at the White House, President Donald Trump indicated that he had encouraged Zacharia to reconsider her position, according to Fox News correspondent Edward Lawrence.

Trump says he told Zacharia to reconsider the role, as she's been "suffering" the last few days as the media has been "brutal" to her, adding that he wants her to be happy.

Zacharia has faced intense scrutiny since taking on her new role. During her first press briefing Tuesday, she answered just three questions from reporters before ending the session.

Newly appointed White House Press Secretary Katie Zacharia speaks during her first press briefing in the James Brady Briefing Room of the White House in Washington, DC, on October 13, 2026. (Photo by Jim WATSON / AFP via Getty Images)

In the days that followed, questions emerged about her legal credentials and qualifications for the position, fueling further criticism of her appointment and whether she has the experience necessary to carry out her responsibilities.

The Source: This story was written with information provided by Fox News Digital and comments made by President Trump speaking with reporters at the White House. This story was reported from Orlando.

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