Katie Zacharia has left her position as White House press secretary after fewer than five days in the role, following remarks by President Donald Trump suggesting she reconsider whether to remain in the job.
Speaking to reporters at the White House shortly before her departure was announced, Trump said he had encouraged Zacharia to think carefully about continuing in the position.
“You don’t have to do this if you don’t want to,” Trump said he had told her. “Honestly, if I were you, I’d reconsider.”
The president added that the role might not be suitable for her, but denied that he intended to dismiss her.
“No, I want her to have a good life,” Trump said when asked whether he would fire her.
Brief Tenure Followed a Difficult First Briefing
Zacharia’s time as press secretary was marked by difficulties from the outset. Her first briefing lasted approximately 14 minutes and attracted criticism over her nervous appearance.
She had been in the position for less than four days when Trump publicly discussed the possibility of her leaving the role.
Her departure would make her tenure shorter than that of Anthony Scaramucci, whose time as White House communications director lasted 11 days in 2017.
Questions Raised Over Her Legal Credentials
Zacharia’s appointment also came under scrutiny following reports that she had never passed the bar examination, despite describing herself as a lawyer.
The revelations added to the attention surrounding her brief period as the administration‘s chief spokesperson.
Zacharia Appeared on Sean Hannity’s Programme
Zacharia appeared on Sean Hannity’s programme on Thursday night, shortly before the developments surrounding her position.
Her departure brings her short tenure as White House press secretary to an end, following Trump’s public comments encouraging her to reconsider the role.
