Trump Clarifies Dana White Press Secretary Joke After Midterm Defeat
The president said he was joking about offering the UFC chairman the role, a post left vacant after a five-day tenure by his previous hire.
By Noor Phillips ·
President Donald Trump stated on Sunday that his proposal to name UFC owner Dana White as White House press secretary was a joke.
The comment came after the president posted on social media on Saturday that he had offered the position to the octagon boss. Trump made the initial announcement one day after replacing Chief of Staff Susie Wiles with Stephen Miller.
The administration turnover followed Tuesday’s midterm elections, where Democratic candidates secured historic victories and took control of both chambers of Congress. These wins included districts that Republicans had held for decades.
Trump spoke to reporters in West Palm Beach, Florida, before traveling back to Washington. He described the offer as "just a little fun" and noted that White appears to like the idea.
"I was kidding, but I think Dana likes the idea, and he is a very capable guy," Trump said. The president added that White is scheduled to visit him at the White House on Monday.
The press secretary role has been empty since Katie Zacharia left the post after five days. Trump cited her struggles behind the lectern and in interviews as the reason for her departure. Miller, who oversees the administration’s hardline immigration policies, now serves as the new chief of staff.
