Analysis: Zacharia was thrown into a whirlwind - and failed at a critical time for Trump
The White House is facing growing adversity, writes the BBC's Anthony Zurcher, weeks before crucial midterm elections.
The White House confirmed Friday that Katie Zacharia is leaving her role as press secretary after five days on the job, according to CBS News and The Guardian US. Free Malaysia Today reports that Zacharia was pushed out following a series of blunders and criticism that she had pretended to be a lawyer. The outlet also noted her debut press briefing was much-mocked, and President Trump reportedly told reporters he had suggested she reconsider the position.
The Guardian US described her departure following a lackluster press briefing debut and scrutiny over her legal credentials, while Free Malaysia Today reported that her Tuesday morning briefing lasted less than 15 minutes and included only three questions from journalists. Former White House press secretary Joe Lockhart told The Hill that Zacharia was "a victim" who was set up to fail by the White House and President Trump because she was not prepared.
According to the Hindustan Times - World News, Trump stated he is in no rush to replace Zacharia and will keep the role vacant, despite social media speculation regarding Scott Jennings.
Brief written by urgent.news from CBS News, The Guardian US, Free Malaysia Today, The Hill, Hindustan Times - World News — 5 reports on this story. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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- Trump fires White House press secretary Katie Zacharia after just one week israelnationalnews.com
- Trump looking for new press secretary after Katie Zacharia fired cbsnews.com
- White House says Press Secretary Katie Zacharia ‘let go’ from role after 5 days timesofisrael.com