From NPR · · 1m 40s
Trump's new press secretary starts amid legal battles
Katie Zacharia takes the podium as White House press secretary while Trump faces record low popularity and a Justice Department investigation into television networks.
In brief
Katie Zacharia takes the podium as White House press secretary while Trump faces record low popularity and a Justice Department investigation into television networks. Katie Zacharia became White House press secretary as Trump's popularity fell to record lows and his administration fought legal battles with news…
New press secretary takes the podium

Katie Zacharia, a forty-one-year-old attorney and mother of four, started her tenure as White House press secretary on Tuesday. She takes the role as Trump's chief spokesperson.
Trump faces record low popularity
Zacharia steps in at a moment when Trump's popularity has fallen to record lows and Republicans are scrambling to limit potential losses in the midterm elections.
White House restricts press access
The Trump administration is engaged in a legal battle with the press corps.Last month, the White House restricted access by CNN, MS NOW and Politico.
Zacharia praised for loyalty to Trump

Trump praised Zacharia's longstanding personal loyalty. He said she has an unblemished record of support and is a devoted fan and member of MAGA. Zacharia called the job the honor of a lifetime.
“She is, likewise, a devoted fan and member of MAGA!”
Background in conservative activism
Zacharia is a graduate of Pepperdine Caruso School of Law who has worked for conservative organizations.
Social media posts amplify conspiracy theories
Zacharia has used social media to amplify right-wing conspiracy theories, including claims that Democratic leaders took part in pedophile rings.
Zacharia defends Trump policies on Fox News
In an appearance on Fox News on Saturday, Zacharia boosted Trump's controversial plan to import Russian diesel fuel, which has drawn bipartisan criticism.She praised Trump's efforts to rally GOP support ahead of the November vote.
The big picture
Katie Zacharia became White House press secretary as Trump's popularity fell to record lows and his administration fought legal battles with news organizations.


