Katie Zacharia has been selected as Karoline Leavitt’s replacement for White House Press Secretary.
President Donald Trump announced on October 9, 2026, that Zacharia would be joining his administration.
“It is my Great Honor to have just appointed, as Press Secretary, Katie Zacharia. Katie currently serves as Senior Communications Advisor to Truth Social (Trump Media & Technology Group), where she has been outstanding!” Trump wrote via Truth Social. “A native of California, Katie previously served as Spokesperson and Deputy Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs at the Department of Homeland Security.”
The president added that Zacharia is an attorney and a “frequent commentator” for Fox News and Newsmax who worked on his campaigns.
“She has an unblemished record of support, and has been a loyal and brilliant supporter, right from the beginning. She is, likewise, a devoted fan and member of MAGA!” he continued. “I am confident that Katie will deliver strong results for our Country as the next White House Press Secretary, as she has the respect of, and will work fantastically with, the Media, the American People, and my Administration. Katie is replacing the fabulous Karoline Leavitt, who did a fantastic job as Press Secretary. Good luck Katie!”
Zacharia’s appointment comes two months after Trump announced that Leavitt was leaving her role as press secretary after welcoming baby No. 2 with husband Nicholas Riccio earlier this year. The following month, Leavitt revealed she scored a new gig with Fox News as a contributor.
Keep scrolling for everything to know about Zacharia:
Where Did Katie Zacharia Go to School?
Zacharia attended Pepperdine University for undergraduate and law school.
What Did Katie Zacharia Do Before Joining the Trump Administration?
Before turning to politics, Zacharia worked as general counsel for the conservative activist group, Fix California, which was founded by Trump ally Richard Grenell. Her legal knowledge also led her to be a commentator on Fox News and Newsmax.
She briefly worked as a spokesperson and deputy assistant secretary for public affairs at the Department of Homeland Security while Kristi Noem was in the role before being reassigned as the Special Envoy for the Shield of the Americas.
Zacharia also served as a senior communications adviser for Trump Media & Technology Group, which is the parent company of Trump’s Truth Social platform.
Is Katie Zacharia Married?
Katie is married to film producer Tyler Zacharia. The couple tied the knot in May 2011 and share four children.
Tyler is best known for his work on The Irishman and Roofman. He is also the managing director at Moriah Media.
When Does Katie Zacharia Start as White House Press Secretary?
The White House has not revealed when Zacharia is set to begin her new role.
