President Donald Trump stated on Sunday that he was only joking about offering the White House press secretary position to UFC leader Dana White, despite posting on social media that he had proposed the role to his close friend.
Administration Changes Follow Midterm Losses
The remarks came following a major shakeup in the administration after the Republican Party suffered significant defeats in Tuesday’s midterm elections. Democratic candidates secured historic victories, capturing areas held by Republicans for decades and causing the GOP to lose control of both congressional chambers.
Trump replaced his chief of staff on Friday by naming longtime aide Stephen Miller, known as the architect of the administration’s hardline immigration policies, to succeed Susie Wiles. The administration has been without a permanent press secretary since Katie Zacharia left the post after five days following struggles behind the lectern and in media interviews.
Upcoming Meeting at the White House
Following his Saturday post about offering the job to White, Trump told reporters in Florida on Sunday before returning to Washington that the announcement was intended as lighthearted entertainment. He added that he believes White enjoys the concept and described him as a very capable person.
Dana White is scheduled to meet with Trump at the White House on Monday.
