White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced Wednesday that she will depart her position at the end of August, setting off immediate speculation regarding who President Donald Trump will select as the administration's next public face. Leavitt, who has served approximately 19 months in the role, cited a desire to spend more time with her two young children, though she will remain a key part of President Trump’s political operation as a top outside adviser for the 2026 midterm elections.
"The next press secretary will undoubtedly be someone who has a strong existing relationship with President Trump. He values and understands the importance of this role in communicating his positions on policy, personnel and key issues, so I can’t imagine it not being someone currently in his orbit." — Sean Spicer, Former White House Press Secretary
The impending vacancy has brought several prominent figures into consideration, including former Trump attorney Alina Habba, Principal Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly, and conservative commentator Scott Jennings. President Trump's choice will fill one of the most visible and closely watched positions within his administration, responsible for communicating the White House's agenda and responding to press inquiries.
President Trump’s first White House press secretary, Sean Spicer, who served approximately 23 months during President Trump’s first administration, offered insight into the President’s likely decision-making process. "The next press secretary will undoubtedly be someone who has a strong existing relationship with President Trump," Spicer told Fox News Digital. "He values and understands the importance of this role in communicating his positions on policy, personnel and key issues, so I can’t imagine it not being someone currently in his orbit." Spicer, who has ruled himself out of consideration for a return, highlighted President Trump's emphasis on trust and familiarity in such a critical role.
Alina Habba is one of the most recognizable names reportedly being discussed. A former personal attorney to President Trump, Habba became a prominent surrogate during his 2024 presidential campaign and was previously considered a potential candidate for press secretary following President Trump’s election victory. At the time, Habba stated she was "flattered" by the speculation but believed she would "be better served in other capacities." Her prior roles include serving as counselor to the president, interim U.S. attorney for the District of New Jersey, and senior adviser to the attorney general for U.S. Attorneys. Her experience in legal and advisory capacities within the administration could make her a strong contender.
Another potential successor is Anna Kelly, who currently serves as Principal Deputy Press Secretary. An internal promotion for Kelly would signify President Trump’s confidence in his existing communications team. Kelly has already played a significant role in the White House communications operation and gained increased visibility earlier this summer when Leavitt was on maternity leave. During that period, Kelly regularly appeared on television, although she has not yet conducted a formal White House briefing from the podium. Her familiarity with the administration's daily operations and existing relationships within the White House could be an advantage.
Scott Jennings, a CNN conservative commentator, has also resurfaced as a possible candidate. Known for his robust defense of President Trump and his administration during contentious panel discussions, Jennings was reportedly considered for the press secretary position after President Trump’s 2024 victory before Leavitt ultimately secured the job. President Trump has publicly praised Jennings in the past, calling him a "patriot" who "gets it," suggesting a strong rapport between the two. His media experience and ability to articulate conservative viewpoints are seen as assets.
Beyond these primary contenders, other names have surfaced in the ongoing speculation. Stephen Miller, a senior advisor to President Trump, and his wife, Katie Miller, have also been mentioned. Katie Miller previously served as press secretary and communications director for former Vice President Mike Pence. When questioned about his wife's potential role, Stephen Miller reportedly declined to answer verbally, instead offering a smile. White House Communications Director Stephen Cheung, who has become one of President Trump's most prominent public defenders, is another name in discussion, though his current position typically keeps him more behind the scenes. Breitbart Washington Bureau Chief Matthew Boyle and former White House Deputy Chief of Staff Taylor Budowich have also been noted.
President Trump might also consider a departure from the traditional model of appointing a single permanent press secretary. During Leavitt’s maternity leave, the White House utilized a rotating approach, bringing various senior administration officials before reporters. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Vice President JD Vance, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz were among the officials who appeared in this capacity. Such a system could allow officials with direct responsibility for specific policies to handle questions, providing specialized expertise rather than relying solely on one general spokesperson.
With Leavitt's departure approaching at the end of August, President Trump’s eventual choice will shape how his administration communicates with the public and the press in the coming months. The decision carries significant weight, as the press secretary serves as a critical conduit for the President's message and policies.
