New White House spokesperson draws fire over China remark
SingTao · 2 SOURCESabout 1 hour ago2 MIN
Summary
New White House press secretary Katie Zacharia has become the focus of international attention after remarks seen as belittling China during an interview on 15 October. Recalling her return from China, she said she had wondered how China could become the next rising power when it did not even have “proper toilets.” The comments stood out because Zacharia had lived in Beijing for about three years after graduating from law school in 2011 and had previously described her time in China as one of the most exciting and unforgettable periods of her life. The episode has also drawn notice because US media said it contrasted with President Donald Trump’s warmer tone toward Beijing.
Key Points
- Zacharia, who took office as White House press secretary in October, came under renewed scrutiny after her first White House briefing and the 15 October interview
- In the interview with conservative commentator Jack Posobiec, she said she remembered thinking China lacked “proper toilets” and questioned its rise.
- SingTao said Zacharia was born in 1984 and moved to Beijing with her husband after graduating from law school in 2011
- She worked for about three years on the international business team at Zhong Lun Law Firm in Beijing, according to SingTao
- on.cc said she had already faced questions over her legal credentials, including where she passed the bar exam, and replied it was when moving to China
Why It Matters
For Hong Kong readers following US-China relations, the controversy shows how remarks by even a newly appointed White House spokesperson can become part of the wider diplomatic atmosphere. It also raises questions about message discipline in Washington at a time when the two governments are described as trying to keep relations stable despite sharp differences in tone