“BRILLIANT!” Fox News’ Dana Perino GUSHES Over Her Assistant’s Viral White House Post—Here’s the Full Story Behind Their Bond

It’s not every day a Fox News legend calls you “brilliant” on Instagram—but for rising star Kate DePetro, that dream just became reality.

Fox News host Dana Perino stunned fans this week by leaving a glowing comment on her assistant’s now-viral post from behind the White House podium, and the internet is OBSESSED with the unlikely story of how their mentor-protégé relationship began.

“@danaperino, how do I look at the podium?”

In a photo posted to her Instagram, DePetro proudly stood behind the iconic White House press room podium, tagging her boss in the caption with a playful nod:

“@danaperino, how do I look at the podium?”

“What a wonderful trip to D.C. I am so thankful & it was an adventure I’ll never forget ❤️”

Perino’s response? Just one word that said it all:
“Brilliant!!”

From PR Rookie to Political Rising Star

Kate DePetro may have started her career in public relations, but it didn’t take long before her journalism DNA kicked in—inspired by her father, a Rhode Island newsman with deep ties to local politics. (Yes, he even emceed Trump’s only RI rally in 2016.)

Determined to chase her dreams, DePetro quit her job just three months in and leaned into a sorority connection that helped her land an opportunity at Fox & Friends.

That’s when fate stepped in.

Meeting Dana Perino: “Your Book Changed My Life”

While working behind the scenes at Fox, DePetro found herself face to face with Dana Perino—former White House Press Secretary, co-anchor of America’s Newsroom, and author of the book that had just changed Kate’s entire outlook.

“I walked right up to her and said, ‘I love your book. I read it. It changed my life,’” she revealed on TikTok in a video now pushing 30,000+ views.

That one moment led to something bigger:

“We stayed connected. When an assistant job came about, she offered it to me.”

Behind the Scenes with the Stars

Now a fast-rising talent at Fox News, DePetro has worked with A-listers like Mark Wahlberg, political heavyweights like Nikki Haley, and the biggest names in conservative media.

But it’s her genuine connection with Perino—and her grit—that’s resonating with young professionals across social media.

Her advice?

“If you work hard, stay positive, and show up every day ready to work your butt off—people will notice. And they’ll want to help you.”

The Next Generation of News Is Here

From a fangirl moment to standing behind the White House podium, Kate DePetro’s journey is proof that preparation meets opportunity—and that the right mentor can change everything.

And with Dana Perino calling her “brilliant,” it’s clear:
The future of Fox News just might already be here.