Karoline Leavitt, the youngest White House press secretary in U.S. history, delivered her final remarks from the White House on Thursday, confirming she has privately advised President Donald Trump on selecting her successor. In her last official day in the role, Leavitt emphasized that Trump is his ‘own best spokesperson’ and urged her eventual replacement to recognize this dynamic.
Leavitt, who served for nearly 20 months, also described her departure as ‘bittersweet’, citing the demands of balancing a high-pressure role with motherhood as a key factor in her decision to step down. She confirmed she will remain involved in Trump’s political operations, returning to Make America Great Again Inc. ahead of the November midterm elections.
Core Developments
Leavitt’s Advice to Successor: In her final public remarks, Leavitt stated that Trump’s ‘own best spokesperson’ is the president himself, adding that this understanding is critical for the next press secretary. She also confirmed she has been advising Trump on potential candidates for the role.
Reason for Departure: Leavitt cited the 24/7 demands of the job as incompatible with her current family responsibilities, noting her two young children—ages two and four months—require more of her time. She described the role as requiring ‘10% briefings and 90% unscheduled calls at all hours.’
Reflections on Tenure
Leavitt praised Trump as an ‘understanding boss and friend’, recalling that critics questioned her youth when she was appointed at 27 years old. She expressed gratitude for his support, stating, ‘He ignored all the doubters and gave me a chance.’
In a Fox & Friends interview, she reiterated her belief in Trump’s policies, calling her tenure an ‘adventure of a lifetime’ and a ‘blessing to work for this president.’ She also acknowledged the personal toll of the job, acknowledging the grueling schedule and the challenges of raising a young family while serving in the role.
Transition Plans
Leavitt confirmed she will return to Make America Great Again Inc. to assist Trump and Republican candidates before the midterms. She also stated she would remain available to Trump as he finalizes his decision on her successor, emphasizing that the next press secretary must have the president’s full trust.
Reactions and Context
Leavitt’s tenure marked the first time a press secretary gave birth while in office, with her second child born in May 2024 during her time at the White House. She previously gave birth to her son, Nicholas, during the 2024 presidential campaign.
Her departure comes as Trump faces ongoing scrutiny over White House staffing and communications strategies. Leavitt’s emphasis on Trump’s self-reliance in messaging contrasts with traditional expectations of a press secretary as the primary public face of the administration.
What’s Next
The White House has not yet named a replacement for Leavitt. She indicated that Trump is considering multiple candidates and that she has provided input on the qualities required for the role, including unwavering trust in the president and alignment with his communication style.