Katie Zacharia is 'transitioning out' as press secretary, White House says

Katie Zacharia is stepping down as press secretary, with the White House confirming her departure from the role, reports indicate. The news comes as a surprise for the spokeswoman who began her position on Monday and is set to leave by Friday. During her initial briefing on Tuesday morning, Zacharia faced criticism over her performance, which included a lengthy and halting opening statement read from notes and only addressing three reporters. Additionally, her legal credentials were questioned.

President Trump expressed doubts about Zacharia's suitability for the role in a conversation just before he left for a campaign rally in Georgia. He reportedly told reporters, "I just spoke to her about it. I said, Katie, is this for you?" and advised her, "You don't have to do this if you don't want." However, he suggested she reconsider serving in the position.

Zacharia, a 41-year-old graduate of Pepperdine Caruso School of Law, has faced scrutiny regarding her legal background. When asked by reporters about the bar exam she had taken, she responded, "When I moved to China," a reference to her time working at a prominent Beijing-based law firm called Zhon Lun from 2011 to 2013. NPR sought clarification from the White House on whether Zacharia holds a U.S. license to practice law.

In response, Zacharia stated, "I practiced international transaction law, with all the appropriate credentials." Zacharia has also worked as a communications advisor for the Trump Media & Technology Group, operating Trump's Truth Social platform, and has been a frequent commentator on conservative outlets such as Fox News and Newsmax.