President Donald Trump is reportedly nearing a decision on the next White House press secretary, with conservative commentator Ben Ferguson emerging as a leading contender for the high-profile position. This development comes after several weeks of flux within the administration’s communications operation, as reported by Fox News Digital. The selection process highlights the ongoing effort to solidify a communications strategy for the remainder of President Trump's term, particularly as a new legislative session approaches.
"While many supporters don’t have the courage to take to the fake news, Ben consistently walks into the lion’s den and faces the media bias head on." Senior Administration Official, Fox News Digital.
The White House has faced a turbulent period regarding its top spokesperson. The position has been vacant since October 13, following the departure of Katie Zacharia. Her brief tenure, which lasted approximately one week, was reportedly marked by controversy concerning her professional background and a widely criticized press briefing that spanned only 14 minutes. Zacharia had taken over from Karoline Leavitt, who resigned in August after returning from maternity leave, citing a desire to spend more time with her family. The frequent changes underscore the demanding nature of the role and the critical need for a stable, effective voice for the administration.
According to Fox News Digital, Ben Ferguson has garnered substantial support among administration officials. These officials believe Ferguson could introduce a distinct approach to the White House briefing room, leveraging his extensive media experience. A source close to President Trump told Fox News Digital on Tuesday, "His name has been brought up to the president by many people." This indicates a concerted effort from within the administration to advocate for Ferguson's candidacy.
Sources also suggest President Trump may be inclined to select a male press secretary, a move that would represent a notable departure from recent White House tradition. The same source close to President Trump stated, "[Trump’s] instincts are to pick a man," adding, "Which many people have told him that’s a good idea." A second individual familiar with the discussions further confirmed that President Trump is considering a male press secretary and identified Ferguson as a frontrunner. Despite this, the President reportedly remains undecided on Ferguson specifically. "POTUS is not sold on the idea," the first source explained, referring to Ferguson, though acknowledging, "I think it’s safe to say [Ferguson is] pursuing the job, and the president is aware."
Ferguson, known for hosting the nationally syndicated radio program "The Ben Ferguson Show," has cultivated a public persona as a vocal defender of President Trump's political agenda. He is also a regular political commentator on CNN, where he frequently engages in robust debates with critics of the administration. This confrontational media experience is reportedly a key factor in his appeal to White House officials. One senior administration official lauded Ferguson’s willingness to directly challenge hostile media environments. "Ben is one of loudest supporters of President Trump in the 21st century," the official told Fox News Digital. "While many supporters don’t have the courage to take to the fake news, Ben consistently walks into the lion’s den and faces the media bias head on."
The official further emphasized the strategic value of Ferguson's background, particularly with Democrats poised to assume control of both chambers of Congress in January. "His resumé and experience are exactly what the administration will need when they face a Congress hell-bent on dismantling our efforts to Make America Great Again," the official added. This perspective highlights the administration’s desire for a press secretary capable of navigating a challenging political landscape and vigorously defending the President's initiatives.
While Ferguson is a prominent contender, he is not the only conservative commentator under consideration. Scott Jennings, another familiar face on CNN and a veteran of President George W. Bush’s administration, has also been mentioned as a possible candidate, known for defending Republican positions. However, one source expressed skepticism about his chances, noting, "The president keeps going back and forth on Scott Jennings," and concluding, "I don’t think it will happen."
Other recognizable names that have surfaced during the search include White House Communications Director Steven Cheung, Breitbart executive Matthew Boyle, and Ari Fleischer, who served as White House press secretary under President George W. Bush. Although female candidates have reportedly been considered, sources suggest President Trump is leaning towards appointing a man. Such a choice would mark a significant shift, as the previous seven White House press secretaries, spanning President Trump's two administrations and former President Joe Biden’s presidency, have all been women. Sean Spicer, who served during the initial months of President Trump’s first administration in 2017, was the last man to hold the position.
With Democrats preparing to take control of Congress, administration insiders anticipate the press secretary role will become even more critical in shaping public perception and countering opposition narratives. An administration official argued that both Ferguson and Jennings have demonstrated the necessary temperament for the role, stating, "He and Scott are screamed at by the radical left everyday as they defend the president to a hostile audience." The official suggested that these intense exchanges mirror the pressure the next press secretary would face daily behind the White House podium. President Trump reportedly aims to fill this vacancy soon, though a final decision has yet to be announced, keeping the identity of the next White House press secretary uncertain.
