President Donald Trump publicly urged Katie Zacharia, who was sworn in as White House press secretary on May 2, to consider stepping down after a week in the job—an unprecedented move by a sitting president.
Zacharia’s brief tenure has already been marred by questions over her legal credentials. The California Bar has opened a formal inquiry after she listed herself as an attorney, a title reserved for those who have passed the bar exam.
During a briefing on Friday, Trump said, "She doesn't have to do this if she doesn't want," adding that the decision was hers alone. "I just want her to be happy," he told reporters, citing the relentless scrutiny from Fox News hosts and a hostile media environment.
White House communications director Steven Cheung defended the appointment, calling Zacharia "uniquely qualified and whip‑smart to help inform the American people," but acknowledged the pressure she has faced. A White House official confirmed the secretary is "transitioning out," but no replacement has been named.
The final decision will be announced before the end of May, as the administration prepares to either retain or replace its chief spokesperson amid mounting criticism.