Katie Zacharia, briefly a White House press secretary, appeared as an adviser for a startup focused on AI-driven rare-earth mining. The company has ties to Kristi Noem, the Homeland Security secretary. Both Zacharia and the firm now say she never held that role.
The listing surfaced in public materials for the company, which aims to use artificial intelligence to locate and extract critical minerals. Rare earths are essential for electronics, defense systems, and clean energy technologies. The venture has drawn attention for its political connections.
Zacharia’s tenure as press secretary was among the shortest in White House history. She stepped down after less than a month in the role. Her name later appeared in connection with the mining startup, raising questions about how it got there.
The company claims it never employed Zacharia and that the adviser listing was an error. It has since removed her name from its website and promotional materials. No explanation was given for how the mistake occurred.
Kristi Noem’s link to the startup adds another layer of intrigue. The company operates in a sector that has become a priority for the federal government. Critical mineral supply chains are a major national security concern.
AI’s role in mining is still emerging. Companies use machine learning to analyze geological data and identify deposits. The technology could reduce costs and environmental impact compared to traditional exploration methods.
The discrepancy between the public listing and the denials from both parties remains unresolved. Neither Zacharia nor the company has provided further details. The episode highlights the challenges of verifying corporate advisory roles.
