Katie Zacharia Departs White House Press Secretary Role Amidst Scrutiny
Departure follows brief tenure and questions regarding law license; Trump cites 'nasty' media pressure.
Carla Rooney
Katie Zacharia is transitioning out of her position as White House press secretary.
Trump spoke to reporters before departing the White House for a Georgia rally. He stated, "I said to Katie just two minutes ago, I said, Katie, you know, you don't have to do this ... the news has been so nasty to her. I've never seen anything like it. And I said, I said to her honestly, if I were you, I'd reconsider. You think about it, but I wouldn't reconsider. She's got a beautiful husband and family."
Zacharia's debut press briefing lasted only 14 minutes, fielding just three questions. This initial appearance prompted immediate questions regarding her law license; Zacharia admitted she did not pass the bar exam.
Zacharia faced claims she lied about holding a law license and being licensed to practice law. The New York Times claimed Zacharia had been fired, while Fox News claimed she was “transitioning out” of the role.