US President Donald Trump announced on his Truth Social account that he has offered the press secretary role to Dana White, the president and CEO of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). Trump described White as a "violent fighter and warrior." The announcement comes after the White House was left without a press secretary following Katie Zacharia's departure on October 16, after less than a week in the position.
Dana White, 57, is a well-known figure in the world of mixed martial arts, leading the UFC, the largest and most successful organization in the industry. The UFC's cage fights are broadcast globally, and White has been a long-time associate of Trump's, with the two having attended various events together, including UFC bouts and Trump's political rallies.
White responded to Trump's offer by posting a photo on social media, possibly AI-generated, showing him behind the lectern in the White House press briefing room, captioned "On to the next chapter." While White did not explicitly accept the job, his post suggests that he is considering the offer. The White House amplified Trump's announcement by publishing a screenshot of the president's post on one of its official accounts.
Trump also mentioned six UFC fighters that he hoped White would bring to the White House as advisers, including two Russian and one Brazilian fighter. The list of fighters was not specified, but it highlights Trump's efforts to associate his MAGA brand of politics with the popular UFC. Trump and White have a history of attending each other's events, including a bloody cage match on the White House South Lawn in June.
The potential appointment of White as press secretary has raised questions about his qualifications for the role. While White has experience as a businessman and sports executive, he has no background in communications or politics. However, his close relationship with Trump and his experience in the public eye may make him a suitable candidate for the position.
Since Trump's reelection in 2024, White has joined the board of directors of Meta, a move seen as a sign of the tech company's conservative shift. White's appointment to the Meta board was seen as a strategic move, given his close ties to Trump and the conservative movement. It is unclear how White's new role at Meta may impact his potential appointment as press secretary.
The offer to White is the latest development in the ongoing search for a new press secretary at the White House. The position has been vacant since October 16, and Trump's offer to White suggests that he is looking for someone with a strong public profile and a loyal supporter.
Key points
- Trump offers press secretary role to Dana White, UFC president and CEO.
- White considers the offer, posting a photo of himself in the White House press briefing room.
- The appointment would mark a significant change in the White House communications team.
