Katie Zacharia is leaving her position as White House press secretary after just five days in the role, following a challenging first week that attracted public attention and questions about her professional background.

President Donald Trump said he had encouraged Zacharia to reconsider the demanding position, expressing concern about the criticism she faced from the media. White House officials subsequently confirmed that she was leaving the role.

Zacharia’s first press briefing also drew attention, while questions arose about her legal credentials after she acknowledged that she had not passed the bar examination required to practise law in the United States.

Her departure comes shortly before the November midterm elections, an important period for Trump’s administration as it seeks to communicate its achievements to the American public.

The White House has not indicated an immediate timeline for appointing her replacement. Zacharia’s brief tenure highlights the pressures that can accompany one of Washington’s most visible communications positions.

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