Potential Replacement for White House Press Secretary Emerges

As the White House prepares for a transition, one of the frontrunners to succeed outgoing press secretary Caroline Leavitt hails from California and has a background working for Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger.

Experts suggest that Stephen Chan, who currently serves as the White House communications director, is a strong candidate for the role. Chan took on some of Leavitt’s tasks during her maternity leave, showcasing his capability in the position.

Chan is a seasoned adviser to President Trump, known for his vigorous defense style. He was born in Sacramento to immigrant parents from China and studied political science at California State University, Sacramento.

His career in communications kicked off as an intern for Schwarzenegger during his college years. Following that, he worked on several political campaigns before joining the Ultimate Fighting Championship in 2013.

Since 2016, Chan has dedicated his career to Trump. Interestingly, the president even dubbed him “Luca Blasi,” inspired by a character from “The Godfather” who serves as a tough enforcer.

After Leavitt’s recent announcement, Chan shared a photo of them together and expressed his appreciation, saying, “Well done.” He described her as a remarkable teammate who serves the President honorably.

Leavitt, at just 28 years old and the youngest press secretary in history, recently welcomed her second child, Viviana. She indicated her decision to step back from her role is to focus more on her family.

Other names in contention to replace Leavitt include Anna Kelly, the White House chief deputy press secretary, and Taylor Rogers, a senior communications official who has experience with the Trump campaign.

Additionally, assistant press secretary Liz Houston and Margo Martin, a close aide to Trump, are also seen as potential candidates for promotion.

Historically, White House press secretaries have often been selected from within the administration’s communications team.

As of Wednesday afternoon, Chan’s odds of succeeding Leavitt stood at 13% according to forecasting site Kalushi, with Anna Kelly leading at 74%, followed by Trump’s former personal lawyer Alina Haba at 21%.