Conservative activist Laura Loomer has publicly expressed interest in becoming President Donald Trump’s next White House press secretary. Her declaration follows the abrupt removal of Katie Zacharia from the position on Friday, October 16, after a brief five-day tenure. Loomer utilized social media to float the possibility of taking over the administration’s communications operation, positioning herself as a potential replacement as the White House considers its next appointment.
"I’d be an amazing Press Secretary. I’d show President Trump all the receipts. I would bring my binder full of receipts to every briefing." Laura Loomer, Conservative Activist
Zacharia's departure marks a swift personnel change within the administration, following her appointment on October 12 to succeed Karoline Leavitt, who left the administration in August. Her short period in the role has been described by Axios as the shortest tenure for a White House press secretary in modern history. The brief stint was marred by controversy, beginning with her first official press briefing on Tuesday, which drew criticism. During the briefing, Zacharia appeared visibly nervous and concluded the appearance after answering only three questions.
Further questions arose regarding Zacharia’s professional qualifications. While President Trump had announced her appointment describing her as an attorney, subsequent reports revealed she was not licensed to practice law in any state. Zacharia herself acknowledged that she had failed the California bar examination and did not attempt it again. By Friday, President Trump was publicly suggesting that Zacharia reevaluate her desire to remain in the demanding position. Hours later, senior administration officials confirmed her removal.
In a series of social media posts on Friday, October 16, Loomer directly addressed the vacancy. "Hear me out: Press Secretary Laura Loomer," she wrote on X, quickly following up with a message outlining her perceived qualifications. "I’d be an amazing Press Secretary," Loomer stated. "I’d show President Trump all the receipts. I would bring my binder full of receipts to every briefing."
Despite her public campaign for the role, Loomer also defended Zacharia against the criticism surrounding her brief tenure. In another X post on Friday, Loomer accused critics of treating the departing press secretary unfairly. "I wish Katie the best," she wrote. "I think it’s great that President Trump has people who are so devoted to his cause they are willing to subject themselves to public nitpicking on a daily basis." Loomer further added her belief that Zacharia had good intentions and that President Trump appreciated her dedication. She also shared an edited photograph featuring her face superimposed onto a blond-haired woman, seemingly referencing the appearance of Zacharia and former press secretary Leavitt.
Loomer's public pursuit of the position comes amid broader speculation about several other conservative figures who have been mentioned as potential candidates for the vacant role. Among the names reportedly under consideration are White House deputy press secretary Anna Kelly, former acting U.S. Attorney for New Jersey Alina Habba, former Department of Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin, and conservative commentator Scott Jennings. Conservative author Elizabeth Pipko has also been mentioned in speculation regarding the opening. According to the prediction market Kalshi, Jennings was listed as the leading contender on Friday, followed by Kelly and Pipko, though these rankings reflect market speculation rather than an official White House shortlist.
The White House has not yet made an announcement indicating that Loomer is under consideration or has been approached about the position. The Hill reported that it contacted the White House for comment on Loomer's remarks. President Trump appears unwilling to rush the selection process. Fox News correspondent Peter Doocy reported on Friday that President Trump told him he was in "no rush" to appoint another press secretary. For now, Loomer's public expressions of interest place her among the individuals discussing the vacancy, with the ultimate decision resting solely with President Trump. The White House has not announced when it expects to name Zacharia’s successor.
