Katie Zacharia denies role on AI mining startup NRED board

The company, which held only $65,689 in cash in January, has recently shifted its focus entirely to developing MetalCore, an AI and robotics platform for mining. This pivot has attracted controversial figures, including Noem and retired Navy commander Phil Ehr, who resigned after Noem joined. Ehr noted the board lacked geologists or technical experts, instead featuring individuals with ties to defense, MAGA, and international entities. Despite the retraction, an archived version of the NRED website listed Zacharia as management as of July, though Saitarli said the site was being updated. Zacharia, who was fired as White House press secretary five days into her tenure, did not respond to requests for comment on her dismissal.