Katie Zacharia had barely finished her first White House press briefing before critics began questioning whether President Donald Trump's newly appointed spokesperson was ready for one of Washington's most demanding jobs.
The 41-year-old spent approximately 14 minutes at the podium Tuesday, delivering prepared remarks about the administration's achievements before answering three questions and bringing the session to an abrupt conclusion.
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Her delivery attracted immediate criticism, with commentators highlighting her reliance on written notes, limited eye contact and occasional awkward pauses during the appearance.
Guardian correspondent David Smith compared her presentation to an AI avatar, a description that quickly became part of the online discussion surrounding her debut.
First briefing takes unexpected turn
Zacharia opened by expressing her enthusiasm for joining the administration, telling reporters she had wanted to work for President Trump for a considerable time.
"I am so honored to work for President Trump and the American people," she said before discussing Republican campaigning ahead of the November midterm elections.
She praised turnout at the president's rallies, claiming that supporters were attending events in record numbers, although those assertions faced scrutiny from political commentators.
The questioning then shifted toward foreign policy, with Fox News correspondent Peter Doocy asking whether the United States had stopped sharing intelligence with Ukraine.
"I will have to get back to you on that," Zacharia replied, declining to provide an immediate clarification about the administration's position.
Her most substantial announcement concerned US ambassador to Greece Kimberly Guilfoyle, whose departure had become the subject of speculation.
"We have asked Ambassador Guilfoyle to resign. She has been a wonderful asset to the team and we wish her well," Zacharia confirmed.
Answer sparks online mockery
Another uncomfortable moment came when a reporter asked how Zacharia planned to balance her new responsibilities with raising four children.
While discussing her husband's support, she accidentally referred to him as the president before correcting herself.
"So my president, excuse me, my husband, that's a good one," Zacharia said, acknowledging the verbal mistake.
She subsequently praised Trump for appointing women with families to senior administration positions, arguing that his decision demonstrated confidence in their ability to manage demanding careers.
The briefing ended shortly afterward, prompting further criticism from commentators who questioned why the new press secretary had answered so few questions.
President Trump praises Zacharia despite criticism
Political opponents quickly seized on the appearance, with the anti-Trump Lincoln Project sharing a comparison to former British prime minister Liz Truss.
Former White House communications director Anthony Scaramucci also joined the discussion, referring to his own brief tenure during Trump's first administration.
"The clock is running. Thus far 1/11th of a Scaramucci," he wrote on X, referencing his departure after just 11 days in the position.
Trump, however, rejected the negative assessments surrounding Zacharia's introduction, offering a straightforward endorsement of his latest appointment.
"I thought she was very good," the president said.
Zacharia previously worked in communications for Trump Media and Technology Group and briefly served at the Department of Homeland Security before receiving the White House appointment.
Her debut has generated considerable attention, but the longer-term assessment of her performance will depend on how she handles future briefings and questions from reporters.