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Washington Today
By the People, for the People
DHS Spokeswoman Zacharia Departs Just Weeks After Joining
Katie Zacharia cites family strain from commuting as reason for exit
Apr. 2, 2026 at 12:35am
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Department of Homeland Security (DHS) spokeswoman Katie Zacharia announced on Tuesday that she is leaving the agency just weeks after being hired. Zacharia, a frequent guest on Fox News, joined DHS in mid-February after the previous top spokesperson, Tricia McLaughlin, departed. Zacharia's exit comes amid other recent leadership changes at DHS under the Trump administration.
Why it matters
Zacharia's abrupt departure from the high-profile DHS spokesperson role raises questions about the stability and direction of the agency under the Trump administration, which has seen significant turnover in key positions.
The details
In her announcement, Zacharia cited the strain of regularly traveling from California to Washington for the job as the primary reason for her departure. She denied reports that her alleged ties to former Trump adviser Corey Lewandowski, who recently left his DHS role, played a factor in her exit.
- Zacharia joined DHS in mid-February 2026.
- Zacharia announced her departure on April 2, 2026.
The players
Katie Zacharia
A frequent guest on Fox News who was hired as the spokeswoman for the Department of Homeland Security in mid-February 2026.
Tricia McLaughlin
The previous top spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security, who left her post prior to Zacharia's hiring.
Kristi Noem
The former head of the Department of Homeland Security, who was recently replaced by Markwayne Mullin.
Corey Lewandowski
Kristi Noem's top adviser and alleged lover, who recently left his role at the Department of Homeland Security.
Markwayne Mullin
The new head of the Department of Homeland Security, replacing Kristi Noem.
What they’re saying
“I joined [DHS] with a genuine passion for supporting [President Trump] in his decisive and effective policies to secure our homeland, be a voice for the precious Angel Families, and an advocate for the men and women of [ICE]. I look forward to continuing that work in other capacities. God bless America, God Bless President Trump, and I am grateful to be alive during the presidencies of [Trump]!!”
— Katie Zacharia, Former DHS Spokeswoman
The takeaway
Zacharia's abrupt departure from the high-profile DHS spokesperson role raises questions about the stability and direction of the agency under the Trump administration, which has seen significant turnover in key positions.
