Trump says Dana White press secretary offer was a joke
The president clarified the comment after naming Stephen Miller as chief of staff and leaving the press secretary role vacant.
By Harper Collins ·
President Donald Trump told reporters on Sunday that his recent offer to appoint UFC chairman Dana White as White House press secretary was intended as a lighthearted gesture. The clarification came after Trump posted on social media on Saturday that he had extended the job offer to his friend, a move that followed a major reshuffling of his senior staff.
The administration underwent rapid changes this week following the Republican Party's defeat in Tuesday's midterm elections. Democratic candidates won historic victories, taking control of both chambers of Congress. In response, Trump replaced his chief of staff on Friday, naming Stephen Miller to the position. Miller, who has long advised on hardline immigration policy, replaced Susie Wiles.
The White House currently lacks a permanent press secretary. Katie Zacharia held the role for five days before departing. She struggled during her time at the lectern and in interviews, prompting her quick exit from the post.
"I was kidding, but I think Dana likes the idea, and he is a very capable guy," Trump said while speaking to reporters in Florida. He was preparing to leave for the White House when he made the remarks. The president indicated that White is scheduled to visit him at the White House on Monday.
The sequence of events began with the midterm election results, which marked a significant shift in power for the GOP. Trump's social media announcement regarding White drew immediate attention, leading to the Sunday explanation that the offer was primarily for fun rather than a serious personnel decision.
