Uncertainty Surrounds White House Press Secretary Role

White House Press Secretary Kayleigh McEnany hosted a discussion on the demanding nature of the role with colleagues Chad Gilmartin, Harrison Fields, and Jalen Drummond. During this, President Donald Trump expressed no urgency in naming a new press secretary.

President Trump noted on a Truth Social post on November 7 that he had offered the press secretary position to Dana White, UFC’s CEO. Trump proposed assembling a team of mixed martial arts fighters to assist the administration. The post included a roster of fighters and a collage. However, the post did not confirm Dana White’s acceptance, nor did it clarify if Trump was serious about this offer.

Trump’s message stated, “We need these people to defend us against the Lunatic Left,” and named potential assistants such as Islam Makhachev, Khabib Nurmagomedov, Justin Gaethje, Daniel Cormier, and Amanda Nunes. Additionally, Trump mentioned “Kayla Harris,” possibly referring to Kayla Harrison.

In a separate development, the White House announced Stephen Miller as the successor to Susie Wiles as chief of staff. This change contrasts with the unresolved issue of the press secretary role. Trump assured reporters on October 23 that there was no rush in finding a replacement press secretary.

The relationship between Trump and Dana White is longstanding, dating back to when Trump supported the UFC in its early stages. Trump hosted UFC events in Atlantic City starting in 2001. White later affirmed his support for Trump during his presidential campaigns, introducing him at the 2024 Republican National Convention.

Both Trump and White attended the UFC Freedom 250 event at the White House on June 14, 2026. Despite their ongoing relationship, White has previously denied any interest in pursuing a political career.

White’s potential transition into politics remains unclear, as does his response to the most recent offer from Trump for the press secretary position.