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Katie Zacharia’s first appearance as White House press secretary ended almost as quickly as it began. This left CNN correspondent Kaitlan Collins questioning how a major media event could provide so little time for questions. The short session became a talking point despite a significant announcement from the Trump administration.
Kaitlan Collins baffled by Katie Zacharia’s 14-minute briefing
Kaitlan Collins discussed the briefing with CNN colleague Wolf Blitzer on Tuesday and described the format as “bizarre.” She said she could not recall attending a press conference that allowed only three questions, particularly when the White House had promoted the event, and President Donald Trump had announced it.
“I’m not really sure, Wolf, that I’ve ever been to a press briefing where there were only three questions in the briefing,” Collins said.
Katie Zacharia spent about eight minutes and 30 seconds delivering opening remarks before calling on reporters. Her first briefing lasted roughly 14 minutes in total. Rather than continue taking questions, she directed journalists toward Trump, saying they could ask him more when he departed for Alaska.
The brevity was not the only notable element of the appearance. Zacharia announced that Trump had asked Kimberly Guilfoyle, the U.S. ambassador to Greece, to resign amid allegations of improper conduct. Collins acknowledged that disclosure as the day’s major news while returning to the limited opportunity reporters had to question the new press secretary. She told Blitzer the briefing had begun only 15 minutes earlier and said, “I’m a little surprised.”
Before Zacharia landed the role, the White House reportedly considered CNN commentator Scott Jennings as a possible successor to Karoline Leavitt, who stepped away from the administration in August to focus on her family. The job ultimately went to Zacharia, who also worked for Trump Media & Technology Group.
Her appointment also came amid an ongoing feud between Trump and CNN. The president has repeatedly criticized the network’s journalism, restricted its access to the White House, and has often directed his ire at anchor Collins.