Trump’s Dana White remark was a joke, but it highlights his trademark instinct for bold, unconventional picks
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President Donald Trump clarified on Nov. 8 that his post about offering UFC chief Dana White the White House press secretary position was made in jest, after a playful Truth Social message that set off plenty of chatter.
President Donald Trump said on Nov. 8 that his earlier claim of offering UFC chief Dana White the White House press secretary job was only a joke, after a lighthearted post that reflected his well-known willingness to think outside the box. Trump had posted on Truth Social on Nov. 7 that he was "pleased to announce that the Great Dana White, a violent Fighter and Warrior, has been offered the job of Press Secretary of the United States," adding that White "loves the idea" of the role. After the post, White told reporters in London he would travel to Washington, D.C., and meet Trump on Nov. 9, but later declined to discuss details. He also shared an Instagram Story showing himself at the White House podium with the caption “On to the next chapter.” Within an hour, his X account promoted upcoming UFC fights. The White House did not comment on the matter. The press secretary position has been vacant since Katie Zacharia left in October, following Karoline Leavitt’s departure in August after more than a year and a half in the role. White, a longtime friend of Trump, has previously hosted the president at UFC events and introduced him at the 2024 Republican National Convention, describing him as a friend of 25 years and "a man that truly cares about people."