US President Donald Trump has appointed Katie Zacharia, a communications adviser for his Truth Social platform, as White House press secretary following Karoline Leavitt’s departure in August.
Trump announced the appointment on Truth Social, praising Zacharia’s loyalty and saying he was confident she would work effectively with the media, the American public and his administration. The New York Times first reported the appointment.
Zacharia’s selection places her at the centre of the White House’s communications strategy ahead of next month’s midterm elections, which will determine control of Congress.
She has served as a senior communications adviser for Truth Social and its parent company, Trump Media & Technology Group, since June. She briefly worked as a spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security before leaving in March.
A lawyer who frequently appears on conservative media outlets Fox News and Newsmax, Zacharia previously worked as a legal adviser for Fix California, a conservative organisation. She also interned at the White House during former President George W. Bush’s administration.
Her appointment comes as Trump faces political pressure over the cost of living and the war in Iran. A recent Reuters/Ipsos poll put his approval rating at 32%, its lowest level of his political career, according to the report.
The choice also highlights the close links between Trump’s administration and his wider political and media network, including Truth Social, where his posts can influence public debate and financial markets.
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