Fox News commentator Katie Zacharia takes charge of DHS public relations as Tricia McLaughlin departs during heightened tensions over immigration enforcement in Minneapolis

Kristi Noem’s Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is facing a major shake-up as Fox News personality Katie Zacharia steps into one of the most challenging public-facing roles in the Trump administration.

The change comes in the aftermath of deadly confrontations with anti-ICE protesters in Minneapolis, which have left the department under intense scrutiny.

At 41, Zacharia is set to become the new deputy assistant secretary and spokeswoman for DHS, replacing 31-year-old Tricia McLaughlin.

Zacharia’s appointment signals a shift toward a more media-savvy presence at the department, contrasting with her predecessor’s controversial tenure.

Tricia McLaughlin Exits Amid Scandal and Criticism

McLaughlin’s departure had been delayed after the deaths of Renee Good, a mother of three, and Alex Pretti, an ICU nurse, at the hands of immigration enforcement officers.

McLaughlin described both victims as “domestic terrorists,” a label that drew widespread criticism and intensified public outrage.

Her tenure was also shadowed by questions of potential conflicts of interest.

Her husband, Ben Yoho, runs an advertising firm that benefited from a $220 million DHS media campaign.

While a spokesperson insisted that DHS did not select the subcontractor directly, the arrangement raised concerns about the flow of taxpayer funds to individuals connected to department leadership.

Sources told the Daily Mail that McLaughlin’s exit is as much a strategic escape as a resignation, reflecting the growing instability surrounding Noem and her inner circle, including Corey Lewandowski, Noem’s de facto number two and rumored partner.

Zacharia Brings Media Experience and International Credentials

Katie Zacharia is no stranger to the national spotlight.

She has spent years as a prime-time contributor on Fox News and Newsmax, tackling complex political issues from a staunchly conservative perspective.

Her media background positions her as a recognizable voice for audiences tracking the department’s controversial policies.

Zacharia also has an international professional background, having spent three years in China as outside counsel for the World Bank.

She is married to film producer Tyler Zacharia, and together they have four children.

Both attended Pepperdine University, blending professional achievement with personal commitments that she brings into her new government role.

DHS Leadership Shake-Up and Internal Maneuvering

McLaughlin’s former responsibilities will now be divided between Zacharia, who will serve as deputy assistant secretary and spokeswoman, and Lauren Bis, who will take on the role of assistant secretary.

Bis, formerly McLaughlin’s deputy for media relations, will primarily work behind the scenes, while Zacharia handles public-facing appearances.

The reshuffle was reportedly orchestrated by Lewandowski, who personally advocated for Zacharia’s appointment.

The move aims to stabilize DHS messaging as public confidence in Trump’s immigration policies has faltered, particularly following the Minneapolis incident.

Mounting Public Pressure and Political Challenges

McLaughlin’s resignation comes amid intensifying political scrutiny.

Democrats have condemned the department’s enforcement actions as heavy-handed and mismanaged, while public opinion has soured in major urban centers.

Compounding these issues, DHS faces a potential funding cutoff, which threatens to further strain its operations.

White House border czar Tom Homan was dispatched to Minneapolis to oversee operations, signaling that Trump may have lost confidence in Noem’s leadership.

Homan’s involvement highlights the internal rivalries within DHS, particularly with Lewandowski, while Noem’s control over department messaging appears to be weakening.

What’s Next?

Katie Zacharia is scheduled to officially step into her new role on February 23, and she faces the daunting task of navigating a department under intense scrutiny.

Her success will depend on balancing media appearances with the realities of managing an agency facing political, operational, and reputational challenges.

Meanwhile, McLaughlin is expected to formally announce her departure to colleagues before leaving DHS, ending a period marked by public criticism and internal tension.

Summary

Kristi Noem’s DHS is undergoing a dramatic transition with Katie Zacharia stepping in as the department’s new spokeswoman.

McLaughlin’s tenure was clouded by controversy over her handling of deadly enforcement actions and potential conflicts of interest involving her husband’s advertising firm.

Zacharia brings both media expertise and international experience, positioning her to reshape the department’s public image.

DHS is simultaneously grappling with public backlash, funding challenges, and internal rivalries, leaving Zacharia to navigate a complex and high-pressure environment as she steps into her new role.