Trump Offers UFC Chief Dana White White House Press Secretary Post
The president invited the mixed martial arts executive to the role on Truth Social, citing a need for combatants against political opponents.
By Scott Marshall ·
President Donald Trump formally offered UFC chief executive Dana White the position of White House press secretary on Sunday. The proposal appeared on the Truth Social platform, where the president described White as a violent fighter and warrior. Trump stated he had extended the invitation to the long-time supporter and friend, asking him to accept the role.
The White House has lacked a permanent spokesperson since October, when Katie Zacharia departed after serving only five days. Zacharia’s brief tenure followed the exit of Karoline Leavitt, who left to spend more time with her family. Leavitt was generally regarded as a calm and competent official, a contrast to the criticism that greeted Zacharia’s debut. The press secretary role involves hosting regular briefings and serving as the primary voice for presidential policy.
In his post, Trump named several prominent fighters, including Khabib Nurmagomedov and Justin Gaethje, suggesting White bring them along as assistants. The president argued that these individuals were necessary to defend the administration against what he termed the Lunatic Left. He concluded the message by declaring that White would be a press secretary unlike any other and urging him to take the job.
White’s acceptance remains uncertain. He currently leads the UFC and is working to expand Zuffa, his fledgling boxing venture. CNN reported that the UFC boss had initially declined the role. However, White told reporters at a boxing event in London on Sunday that he would meet with Trump at the White House on Monday to discuss the matter.
US political analyst Calvin Dark suggested the offer might be a strategic move to generate media attention. Dark noted that Trump often uses unexpected suggestions to capture headlines, implying that a polite refusal by White would not damage their relationship. The two men have a history of collaboration, with White speaking at Trump rallies in the past. The UFC also hosted a major event on the White House lawn in June.
The announcement comes shortly after the president’s loss in the mid-term elections. Trump has already made one major personnel change, replacing Susie Wiles with Stephen Miller as chief of staff. Steven Cheung, formerly the UFC’s public affairs director, currently serves as the White House communications director. The administration will determine the next steps for the press secretary post following Monday’s meeting.
