Trump Calls Dana White Press Secretary Joke

The White House press secretary role has seen rapid turnover, leaving the position vacant following the brief tenure of Katie Zacharia. President Donald Trump addressed the uncertainty on Sunday by stating he was joking about naming Dana White, the president and CEO of the Ultimate Fighting Championship, to the post.

The speculation began Saturday when Trump posted on Truth Social that he was pleased to announce White had been offered the job. He described White as a violent fighter and warrior in the message. By Sunday, the president told reporters in Florida that the announcement was just a little fun. He added that he believed White liked the idea and considered him a very capable guy.

White is due to visit Trump at the White House on Monday. The clarification comes after questions arose about the seriousness of the offer, particularly after Trump previously suggested he would think about considering musician Nikki Minaj for the role. When asked about Minaj, Trump said he would have to think about that idea.

Zacharia served in the position for only five days, marking the shortest tenure in White House history. She was let go after succeeding Karoline Leavitt, who held the post from January 20, 2025, through August 27. Leavitt is 27 years old and was the youngest person to hold the position in American history. She announced in October that she would join Fox News Channel as a contributor.

Trump made the comments while speaking to the media before departing for Washington D.C. The situation highlights the ongoing search for a permanent press secretary amid a series of short-term appointments and public comments about potential candidates.