Former Arizona gubernatorial candidate Kari Lake waited for hours in the White House lobby seeking Donald Trump's endorsement for a potential congressional run, according to a report by The Atlantic. Lake, who serves as senior advisor at the US Agency for Global Media, has faced criticism for overseeing layoffs and program cancellations at the agency while pursuing her political ambitions.

Despite losing two statewide races in Arizona and previously vowing not to run again, Lake is now considering a congressional bid. The report details how she spent hours waiting to meet Trump, with White House staff noting her presence to GOP operatives. Her tenure at USAGM has been marked by controversy, including accusations of squandering taxpayer funds and damaging America's foreign broadcasting capabilities.

Lake's political future appears uncertain even with Trump's backing. The Atlantic report suggests MAGA voters in Arizona have moved on from her, and she may be exploring opportunities in Iowa, where she owns property. When asked about her congressional ambitions, Lake responded that "The Atlantic will be the very last to know" if she decides to run, while denying the specific details of the White House lobby incident.