President Donald Trump stated on November 8, 2026, that his recent offer of the White House press secretary position to Ultimate Fighting Championship CEO Dana White was intended as a joke. Speaking to reporters while in West Palm Beach, Florida, the President clarified the nature of the announcement that had captured public attention over the weekend.
“I will tell you, I was only kidding,” Trump said during the interaction. He added that White seemed to enjoy the concept, noting that there is only one Dana White and that he is a great individual.
The President’s comments followed a cartoon video he shared on Truth Social earlier that day. The animation depicted White standing in the White House briefing room alongside several prominent UFC fighters. In the scene, the fighters were shown attacking reporters, a visual gag that Trump referenced while explaining his intent.
“Of course, I was kidding. And you can see that, because they put all of the great fighters as his assistants, that they’re all gonna come with them. But it was, it was just a little fun,” the President explained. He further noted that White is scheduled to arrive in Washington, D.C., on November 9 and plans to discuss the role with him.
The initial offer was made via a Truth Social post on November 7. In that message, Trump described White as a violent fighter and warrior who has been offered the job of Press Secretary of the United States. The post listed specific individuals whom Trump requested White bring along as assistants.
The list of proposed assistants included fighters Islam Makhachev, Khabib Nurmagomedov, Justin Gaethje, Daniel Cormier, Amanda Nunes, and Kayla Harris. Trump wrote that the country needs these people to defend it against the Lunatic Left, adding a layer of political commentary to the unconventional staffing proposal.
The White House is currently without a permanent press secretary. Karoline Leavitt previously held the position but departed her role earlier in 2026. The administration has been working to fill the vacancy since her exit.
The search for a new spokesperson has seen brief and contentious changes. Katie Zacharia, a political commentator, served in the role for five days. Her tenure ended after critics accused her of misrepresenting her legal credentials, leading to a swift departure from the position.
As the administration continues its search for a long-term solution, the President’s lighthearted comments regarding White serve as a reminder of the ongoing transition in the White House communications team. White’s upcoming meeting with the President on November 9 may provide further insight into the future of the press briefing room.
