Trump Calls UFC CEO Press Secretary Joke After Social Media Post
The president clarified his Saturday suggestion that Dana White should lead the White House media team, calling it lighthearted fun rather than a serious recruitment plan.
By Aiko Soto ·
President Donald Trump stated on Monday that he was only joking when he proposed UFC CEO Dana White as the next White House press secretary. Trump told reporters that the idea was "just a little fun" and that he had not been serious about the appointment. He noted that White "loves the idea" of taking the role but insisted the suggestion was a playful gesture.
The clarification follows a social media post from Saturday in which Trump described White as a "violent Fighter and Warrior." In that post, Trump suggested White bring several current or former UFC champions to serve as assistants. He argued that such a team was needed to "defend us against the Lunatic Left." The post included photographs of prominent fighters alongside the text, which sparked speculation about a combative approach to media relations.
Trump explained that the photographs of the fighters were part of the joke. He said the meeting with White on Monday was planned for other reasons, not specifically to discuss the press secretary job. White has led the Ultimate Fighting Championship for more than two decades and has been a close ally of the president. He helped mobilize support for Trump's 2024 presidential campaign and has appeared alongside him at several political events.
White also helped bring UFC fights to the White House lawn this year. Trump's comments come as Democrats prepare to take control of Congress. The president's initial post signaled a potential shift in tone for dealing with the opposing party, but his Monday remarks downplayed the strategic intent behind the suggestion.
