Photos of Trump’s new press secretary Katie Zacharia giving her first briefing

The new press secretary for Donald Trump’s White House stepped to the podium. The eyes of a packed room of journalists — and many in their audiences — were upon her. Like her predecessor, she smiled broadly at the sea of faces both probing and friendly. With that, Katie Zacharia went live and became the official voice of the most powerful person in the world. Fourteen minutes and just three questioners later, she was done. It was clear that the former commentator accomplished at least one thing: She put the “brief” back in briefing.

Katie Zacharia is leaving her role as White House press secretary after a brief and challenging tenure. A person familiar with the situation said Friday that Zacharia would be transitioning out. Her departure follows President Donald Trump's comments earlier in the day, suggesting she reconsider her position. Zacharia faced immediate scrutiny during her first briefing on Tuesday, where she appeared uncomfortable and was criticized for her professional background. She had previously described herself as a lawyer without passing a bar exam. Trump said he wanted her to have a good life and avoid media criticism. Zacharia's first official day was Monday.