Donald Trump’s new White House press team named as Sean Spicer moves on
The US president said he is “grateful” for Mr Spicer’s work.
New York financier Anthony Scaramucci has been formally named White House communications director and Sarah Huckabee Sanders has been promoted to press secretary in the Trump White House’s latest shake-up.
Donald Trump said in a statement read by Ms Sanders that he is “grateful” for departing press secretary Sean Spicer’s “work on behalf of my administration and the American people”.
He added: “Just look at his great television ratings!”
Mr Scaramucci also addressed reporters at the White House. He called Mr Spicer “a true American patriot” and said he hopes the departing press secretary “goes on to make a tremendous amount of money”.
Mr Spicer said he chose to resign from his position to give Mr Scaramucci a fresh start, adding “we’re at the point where” the president “could benefit from a clean slate”.
He said he felt it would be best for Mr Scaramucci to be able to build his own operation “and chart a new way forward”.
Mr Spicer also complimented Mr Scaramucci, who was a staple at Trump Tower during the president’s transition.
Mr Spicer said of Mr Scaramucci: “It’ll be great, he’s a tough guy.”
The departing press chief said it has been “an honour” and “privilege” to serve Mr Trump and the country.
He said in a tweet that he will continue his service through August.
