The upcoming exit of President Donald Trump’s press secretary has led to quite a bit of chatter in Washington, D.C. Everyone seems to be curious about who might step into Caroline Leavitt’s shoes as she prepares to leave her post.
Leavitt, who is 28, recently announced that she will be finishing her term at the end of August to focus more on her two young children, shortly after starting her maternity leave. With just a couple of weeks left in the month, the search for her successor is kicking off. Interestingly, some insiders are speculating that, instead of naming a permanent replacement right away, Trump administration officials might share the briefing duties, similar to what occurred earlier during Leavitt’s absence.
During her maternity leave, different officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice President J.D. Vance, have been taking turns at the podium.
Sean Spicer, a former press secretary, mentioned that whoever takes the role next will likely have a pre-existing strong relationship with Trump. He underscored that communicating Trump’s policies and other critical issues is vital. So, it’s hard to picture someone without that connection stepping in. Spicer, who had a notably brief time in his position, has decided to withdraw his name from the running.
As for potential candidates, Alina Haba, currently an advisor at the Department of Justice, appears to be a leading contender for the role post-Trump’s re-election. Despite being mentioned as a candidate before, Haba noted she felt she could serve better in other capacities at that time.
On a side note, after a controversial tenure as interim attorney in New Jersey, she stepped down and took on a senior advisory role for the Attorney General.
Meanwhile, Trump’s personal lawyer and a prominent campaign figure, is now suggested to be behind Haba as potential candidates for the role, including Anna Kelly, Leavitt’s deputy. Kelly has stood in for Leavitt during interviews but hasn’t yet taken the briefing stage.
Another contender, Scott Jennings, a CNN commentator and former aide to President George W. Bush, was also previously considered when Trump was re-elected in 2024. Jennings’ recent book has drawn Trump’s endorsement, highlighting his qualities as a “patriot” who “gets it.”
On social media, Stephen Miller, a senior adviser, and his wife have also been suggested as viable replacements. When asked about his wife’s past role as Leavitt’s press secretary, Stephen opted to smile rather than comment.
From behind the scenes, White House communications director Stephen Chan is an influential figure but operates quite discreetly.
Other names floating around include Matthew Boyle of Breitbart and former chief of staff Taylor Budwich.
Leavitt has served for 19 months, making her the second-longest-serving press secretary in Trump’s administration, just behind Sarah Huckabee Sanders, who held the role for 23 months. Notably, following Huckabee’s departure, Stephanie Grisham’s time was marked by a lack of press conferences, a rather rare circumstance in that role.
