World · Malaysia Bureau
Trump claims UFC chief press secretary offer was merely a joke
US President Donald Trump has clarified that his reported offer of the White House press secretary position to UFC chief Dana White was not serious. The role remains vacant after Katie Zacharias departed less than a week into the position.
LSN Malaysia ·
Trump dismissed suggestions he had formally offered the prominent spokesperson role to White, characterising the matter as humorous rather than a genuine appointment consideration. The press secretary position ranks among the most high-profile and demanding roles within any US administration, requiring the officeholder to serve as the primary communications liaison between the president and the media.
The press briefing room has lacked a permanent spokesperson since Katie Zacharias vacated the post following her brief tenure. Her departure after fewer than seven days in the role marked a significant disruption to the administration's communications operations.
The Trump administration has faced challenges in filling key communications positions during its term. The rapid turnover in the press secretary office underscores the intensity and visibility of the role, which demands managing daily media interactions and maintaining public messaging consistency.
White, who leads the Ultimate Fighting Championship, has maintained a close association with Trump and has been a visible supporter of the president at various public events. Despite the joking nature of Trump's comments, the administration continues to seek a permanent press secretary to helm White House communications.