Alina Habba denies interest in replacing Karoline Leavitt as White House press secretary

Alina Habba, a senior adviser to the attorney general for U.S. attorneys, stated on Wednesday that she is not in consideration to replace Karoline Leavitt as White House press secretary. Leavitt, who is currently on maternity leave, announced earlier this month that she would conclude her role at the end of August to focus on her family. Speculation about Habba's potential appointment had increased, with prediction market platform Kalshi giving her a 35% chance of being named Leavitt's successor. However, Habba dismissed these rumors, expressing her gratitude for the consideration but clarifying that she is not pursuing any job at this time. Following her statement, CNN political commentator Scott Jennings became the new favorite for the position, with Anna Kelly, Leavitt's deputy, also in the running. Jennings has previously been considered for the role after Trump's 2024 election victory.