Press Secretary Office Configuration Sparked Questions
White House communications director Steven Cheung holds the traditional press secretary office while Katie Zacharia works nearby.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in People
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Press Secretary Katie Zacharia occupies a small West Wing office suite, while communications director Steven Cheung uses the traditional press secretary office. The arrangement follows Karoline Leavitt's departure from the role in late August.
Why it matters
The unusual office distribution and questions regarding the legal credentials of the newly appointed spokesperson have drawn public and media attention. Zacharia provided her first press briefing on Tuesday following the internal transition.
Anthony Scaramucci holds the record for a short tenure as White House communications director at 11 days. Records currently contain no evidence that Katie Zacharia maintains a valid license to practice law.
The players
Katie Zacharia
She serves as the White House press secretary and recently delivered her first briefing.
Steven Cheung
He is the White House communications director and currently occupies the traditional press secretary office.
Karoline Leavitt
She previously served as the White House press secretary before vacating the office in August 2026.
Anthony Scaramucci
He is a former White House communications director who held the position for 11 days in 2017.
The details
Communications director Steven Cheung occupies the large West Wing office formerly used by deputy chief of staff Taylor Budowich. Katie Zacharia, who shared that she moved to China when queried about her bar exam status, occupies a small corner office within the suite.
Timeline
Anthony Scaramucci served as communications director for 11 days in 2017.
Karoline Leavitt vacated the press secretary office at the end of August 2026.
Katie Zacharia delivered her first press briefing on Tuesday, October 13, 2026.
Market Landscape
The unconventional distribution of office space reflects a shift in internal administrative hierarchy within the West Wing. This move follows the 11-day tenure of Anthony Scaramucci in 2017, highlighting the volatile nature of communications staff roles.
The change in office configuration indicates potential shifts in how information is disseminated from the White House to the public. Residents and stakeholders may see different priorities and communication styles from the updated leadership team.
The takeaway
Staffing changes at the highest levels of government often reflect shifts in administrative strategy and internal power dynamics. Observers should watch for future updates on office policies as the team settles into their respective roles.
Further reading
For more information on administration personnel, visit the People section.
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