Photo: JIM WATSON / AFP / Getty Images
President Donald Trump clarified on Sunday that he was joking about offering the role of White House press secretary to UFC CEO Dana White. In a social media post on Saturday, Trump had suggested that White could take on the position, describing him as a "violent Fighter and Warrior," and even proposed that several UFC champions join as assistants. However, Trump later told reporters, "I will tell you, I was only kidding," emphasizing that the suggestion was made in jest.
White, who has been a long-time ally of Trump, responded to the idea by saying he "loves the idea" of being press secretary, but noted that he already has "a lot of jobs." He is scheduled to meet with Trump at the White House on Monday, though Trump stated that the meeting will be for reasons unrelated to the press secretary position.
The role of White House press secretary has been vacant since Katie Zacharia left the position after just five days in October, following the departure of Karoline Leavitt in August. Trump and White have a history of collaboration, with White having supported Trump's presidential campaigns and hosted him at UFC events.
According to the Star Advertiser, Trump and White first worked together in the early 2000s when Trump's Taj Mahal casino hosted UFC events. Their relationship has grown closer over the years, with White publicly backing Trump's presidential campaign in 2016.
CBC noted that White has been a prominent supporter of Trump and has helped mobilize support for his campaigns. Despite the playful suggestion, Trump confirmed that White's visit to the White House is for other matters.