Katie Zacharia has stepped down as White House press secretary just five days after assuming the role, according to two White House officials. Her departure was confirmed on Friday following comments from President Donald Trump, who indicated publicly that she might reconsider her position.

Zacharia’s brief tenure unfolded amid internal tensions within the West Wing and growing voter dissatisfaction with the Republican Party as the midterm elections approached. Shortly before the announcement, Trump stated outside the White House that while he supported Zacharia personally, he questioned whether the press secretary role was the right fit for her.

“Maybe it’s not for her,” Trump said during the media encounter, signaling a possible loss of confidence in her ability to fulfill the demanding duties of the position.

Zacharia’s appointment came with little prior vetting, and questions regarding her credentials quickly became a focal point, overshadowing her initial days on the job. The swift exit from such a prominent post is unusual and highlights ongoing instability within the Trump administration’s communication team.

The role of White House press secretary is pivotal, serving as the principal spokesperson for the president and the administration, especially during politically sensitive periods. Zacharia’s abrupt departure leaves the White House searching for a replacement in the critical weeks leading up to the elections.