A week in, Trump casts doubt over press secretary Katie Zacharia's future at the White House

Trump leaves decision open

Speaking on the White House lawn before leaving for a rally in Georgia, Trump said he had spoken with Zacharia and believed she did not deserve the negative coverage she was receiving. He recounted telling her she might be happier without the job.

Trump said he would make a final decision after his campaign travel, possibly later Friday or over the weekend. “When I get back, we’re gonna talk,” Trump said.

Briefing drew early scrutiny

Trump announced Zacharia’s appointment on Oct. 9, choosing her to succeed Karoline Leavitt, the youngest-ever White House press secretary and a longtime member of his inner circle. Zacharia’s selection surprised observers.

At her first briefing, Zacharia appeared uncomfortable and delivered halting remarks praising Trump and his record. She took questions from three reporters representing conservative-leaning or Trump-friendly outlets, then left after about 14 minutes.

Zacharia said she wanted to keep the briefing short so Trump could hold his own question-and-answer session later that morning. She also said White House staff had not fully briefed her beforehand. She later accompanied Trump to rallies in Alaska, Arizona and Montana, but did not hold additional briefings.

Questions about credentials

Zacharia faced criticism for describing herself as a lawyer, although she had not passed a bar exam or otherwise been credentialed to practice. She had used the title while appearing as a commentator on conservative television outlets.