Karoline Leavitt, the White House press secretary, announced on August 22, 2026, that she will return to the Trump-aligned super PAC MAGA Inc. after leaving her position at the White House. Leavitt stated that her decision is motivated by a desire to spend more time with her children, having recently given birth to her second child.
During a rally, former President Donald Trump expressed his disappointment regarding Leavitt's departure, joking that she loves her baby more than him. Leavitt confirmed that her travel with Trump to a rally in South Carolina would be her last in her current role, although she will participate in the Republican National Committee’s midterm convention.
Leavitt previously indicated she would remain a top advisor to Trump from outside the White House. She has not disclosed her new title at MAGA Inc., where she had worked prior to joining Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign. Trump praised Leavitt on Truth Social, calling her one of his most trusted aides and commending her performance as press secretary.
Speculation about her replacement has arisen, with Trump mentioning Scott Jennings, a conservative radio host and CNN political contributor, as a potential candidate. Trump noted the high interest in the press secretary position, stating he has received numerous job applications.