White House Press Secretary Katie Zacharia Leaves Post Within Days Amid Briefing Criticism and Bar Exam Controversy

*WASHINGTON:* Katie Zacharia, newly appointed press secretary to US President Donald Trump, has left her position just days after taking office. According to US media reports, criticism of her first White House press briefing and controversy over her legal credentials contributed to the difficulties surrounding her tenure. Trump also reportedly advised her to reconsider remaining in the position.

Zacharia began working at the White House on October 12, while her first press briefing took place on October 13. The briefing lasted approximately 14 minutes, during which she took questions from only three journalists. Her presentation and handling of questions drew criticism in the US media. A White House official reportedly said her performance had also failed to impress Trump.

The controversy intensified when questions emerged about her legal qualifications and whether she held a licence to practise law. Zacharia had earned a law degree from Pepperdine University School of Law and had described herself as a lawyer. However, US media reports said they could not find a record showing that she was licensed to practise law in any US state or the District of Columbia.

On October 15, Zacharia clarified during an appearance on Fox News’ *Hannity* that she had not passed the bar examination. In the United States, obtaining a law degree and being licensed to practise law are separate matters. The clarification prompted further discussion about her professional credentials.

On October 16, Trump told reporters that he had advised Zacharia to reconsider her decision to remain in the position. According to the president, media criticism had made the situation difficult for her. He said that if he were in her position, he would consider leaving the job. However, Trump did not publicly describe the departure as a direct dismissal by him.

Meanwhile, two White House officials reportedly told the media that Zacharia was leaving the position and had been removed from the post. News of her departure emerged only days after she took up the role.

The development attracted attention because the White House press secretary plays a central role in communicating the president’s positions and explaining administration policies to journalists and the public.

Available reports suggest that Zacharia’s departure was not attributed to a single incident. Criticism of her first press briefing, questions about her legal credentials and Trump’s advice to reconsider the position were all reported as significant factors. However, no detailed official statement setting out the full circumstances of her departure was immediately available.