First lady Melania Trump hires Arizona woman as communications director

PHOENIX — First lady Melania Trump has hired former Arizona House spokeswoman Stephanie Grisham as her director of communications.

The move was made official on Monday.

“Stephanie is a wonderful addition to the team,” Trump said in a statement to CNN. “She brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the job, and will be an incredible asset to my office as we build out our agenda, preserve our country’s rich traditions and serve the American people.”

Grisham said in the same statement that she was honored to be chosen for the position and hopes to help the first lady’s initiatives.

“Mrs. Trump’s life story is an inspiration to millions of mothers and female entrepreneurs, and to me personally,” she said.

“I deeply respect and admire her commitment to our country, her family and to the important role of the first lady. I look forward to helping her communicate her unifying message of kindness and empowerment.”

Grisham took a leave from her Arizona job shortly after the Legislature adjourned in May to work on press matters for President Donald Trump’s campaign. She said at the time that she would travel with the then-candidate to handle the protective press pool that accompanied Trump and act as a spokeswoman.

Grisham, who later resigned from her House job, was named to the president’s transition team in November.

Grisham also served as the spokesperson for former Arizona Attorney General Tom Horne.

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