Donald Trump has a blunt response to Dana White’s decision to stay out of politics. The UFC chief rejected the president’s offer of a White House Press Secretary job. The exchange came during a joint appearance in Washington.
Donald Trump reacts as Dana White rules out press secretary role
Dana White made clear he had no interest in swapping the UFC for a government job. Trump put the question to him at Monday’s briefing, pointing to the White House sign behind the podium and asking whether he wanted the role or preferred to stick with “this ridiculous UFC.” White thanked him for the offer but said, “I do not want to be in politics.” Trump replied, “I am devastated to hear this. Goodbye, everyone” (via Uncrowned).
It all started as a throwaway remark that somehow became headline news. Trump first pitched White’s name for the role on Truth Social, only to walk it back the next day. He said he was “only kidding” and joked that White was actually keen on the gig.
Trump later traced the idea to what he described as a “very bad press day.” He said his longtime friend came into his head, so he tossed the suggestion to reporters. Before he knew it, the offhand comment had snowballed into a full-blown news story. Trump said the coverage caught both men off guard. White agreed, describing the previous 24 hours as “insane.”
White’s visit drew attention because of his history with Trump. Their relationship dates to 2001, when Trump’s Atlantic City hotel and casino hosted two UFC events. White later became a visible Trump supporter in sports. He spoke at three Republican National Conventions and endorsed Trump’s presidential campaigns.
White’s own social media post added fuel before the meeting. After Trump’s Saturday message, the UFC boss shared a photo of himself at the White House briefing podium with the caption, “On to the next chapter.”
