Karoline Leavitt, the White House press secretary, announced on August 13, 2026, that she will leave her position at the end of the month to spend more time with her children. This announcement has led to speculation in Washington, D.C., regarding her successor. Leavitt, who has served for 19 months, is the second-longest-serving press secretary in the Trump administration.
In the interim, officials expect a series of Trump administration representatives to brief the press, similar to the arrangement during Leavitt's maternity leave earlier this summer. Former Trump press secretary Sean Spicer indicated that the next press secretary will likely have a strong relationship with President Trump.
Potential candidates for the role include Alina Habba, who previously served as Trump's personal attorney, and Anna Kelly, Leavitt's deputy. Scott Jennings, a CNN contributor and former aide to President George W. Bush, is also being considered. Other names mentioned include Stephen Miller and his wife, Katie Miller, as well as Matthew Boyle and Taylor Budowich. The final decision on Leavitt's replacement is anticipated to be made soon as her departure date approaches.