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UFC CEO Dana White has turned down President Donald Trump's offer to become the next White House press secretary. Trump made the offer on Truth Social on Saturday (November 7), but later clarified that he was joking. White, a longtime friend and supporter of Trump, stated he has no interest in entering politics.
During a chaotic news conference at the White House on Monday (November 9), Trump jokingly asked White if he would prefer to be the press secretary or stay with the UFC. White responded, "Thank you for the offer, sir—I have no, no—I do not want to be in politics," as reported by Yahoo Sports.
The press secretary position has been vacant since Katie Zacharia left after just five days in October. Her predecessor, Karoline Leavitt, departed in August after a year and a half in the role. Trump's announcement of offering the job to White sparked speculation about a more aggressive stance following the Republican Party's midterm election defeat.
White, who has been a visible ally of Trump, helped host a UFC match on the White House lawn earlier this year. Despite the offer, White emphasized he has "zero political aspirations," according to TMZ.
Trump's search for a new press secretary continues as he faces increased scrutiny from a Democrat-controlled Congress. The president has hinted at more staffing changes, recently replacing his chief of staff with Stephen Miller, a loyal aide.