President Donald Trump is reportedly narrowing his search for a new press secretary, with conservative commentator Ben Ferguson and former Bush administration adviser Scott Jennings emerging as leading candidates. Multiple sources close to the president indicate Trump’s preference for a male press secretary, though final decisions remain pending.
Prediction markets reflect shifting odds for the potential picks. On Kalshi, Jennings’ chances rose from 4% to 11% within hours, while Ferguson’s odds jumped from 2% to 21% by late Tuesday. Similarly, Polymarket showed Jennings’ odds increasing from 2.6% to 20.5% in the same period. The developments follow Trump’s impromptu White House briefing alongside UFC CEO Dana White, who declined an offer to serve as press secretary.
Sources close to Trump have described Ferguson as a top contender, with one stating, “His name has been brought up to the president by many people.” Another source noted Trump’s instincts favor a male press secretary, a shift from the past seven press secretaries—all women—who have held the role since Trump’s first term. The last male press secretary, Sean Spicer, served from January to June 2017 before being replaced by Sarah Huckabee Sanders.
Trump’s deliberations remain fluid, with one source noting, “POTUS is not sold on the idea” regarding Ferguson, while another said the president “keeps going back and forth on Scott Jennings.” Ferguson, host of The Ben Ferguson Show and a frequent Trump supporter on X, has been actively pursuing the role, according to reporting. Jennings, a CNN contributor and former adviser to President George W. Bush, has also been floated but faces uncertainty.
White House outreach has been initiated, with Newsweek contacting the White House via email, Ferguson via Facebook, and Jennings through his website for comment. No immediate response has been reported.
Background: The Press Secretary Role
The press secretary serves as the administration’s primary spokesperson, fielding questions from the media and shaping public narratives. Recent occupants of the role have included Karine Jean-Pierre under Biden and Kayleigh McEnany under Trump’s first term, both of whom were women. The position’s gender dynamics have drawn attention amid Trump’s reported preference for a male successor.
Market Reactions and Speculation
Prediction markets often reflect public and insider sentiment, though they are not definitive indicators of actual outcomes. The rapid shifts in odds for Ferguson and Jennings suggest growing speculation about their viability, though Trump’s indecision complicates predictions. Other names have been mentioned in broader discussions, but neither Ferguson nor Jennings has been confirmed as a final choice.
Next Steps
The White House has not announced a timeline for the selection process, but sources indicate Trump aims to fill the role soon. The final decision will hinge on Trump’s evolving priorities and internal advisers’ input.