Following White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt's unexpected announcement of her resignation, speculation is swirling within President Donald Trump's inner circle regarding her successor. Leavitt's departure, confirmed by Trump on Wednesday afternoon via social media after a private discussion, has left a vacancy at the podium that has quickly prompted discussions about potential replacements.
Sources close to the White House indicated to the Daily Mail that while Leavitt kept the details of her decision private, a sense of impending change had been felt in recent weeks. The president's decision not to name an immediate replacement on his social media post suggested that no single candidate had yet been definitively chosen.
Longtime Trump communications advisor Jason Miller, who rejoined the White House in July, is expected to play a significant role in press operations, although his direct involvement at the podium remains uncertain. In the interim, the West Wing staff is anticipated to revert to the routines established when Leavitt was previously on maternity leave. IMAGE6
Several individuals are reportedly being considered for the role. Principal Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly, who has a background as a former beauty queen, is technically next in line according to West Wing considerations. IMAGE3 However, some sources suggest that Trump may opt for someone from outside the current administration.
Other names being floated include former Department of Homeland Security Press Secretary Katie Zacharia, who is described as a favorite of the president. IMAGE2 Former DHS Secretary Kristi Noem is also mentioned in connection with Zacharia's previous tenure. Additionally, former counselor to the president Alina Habba, who departed the White House in March 2025, has been suggested as a possibility.
Even unconventional candidates are being discussed. Bill Pulte, director of U.S. Federal Housing and a loyal aide to Trump, has been mentioned as a potential, albeit unlikely, choice. Pulte previously served a 45-day stint as acting director of national intelligence. IMAGE9
Former Deputy Press Secretary Abigail Jackson departed last week, and Director of Media Affairs Sonny Joy Nelson also left earlier in the year, indicating a period of transition within the communications team.
Cabinet officials who previously stepped in to handle press briefings during Leavitt's absence, such as Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, have also been noted for their performance.
CNN political commentator Scott Jennings has emerged as a popular candidate among Washington insiders. Sources have compared him to Tony Snow, a former press secretary under President George W. Bush, citing his ability to handle the press room with gravitas. IMAGE5 Jennings, while not traditionally considered part of the "Trump world," is seen by many as a capable choice for the podium.
Katie Miller, a former spokesperson for the Department of Government Efficiency and press secretary for Vice President Mike Pence, has also been rumored as a candidate. However, sources indicate she is unlikely to take the position due to recent family circumstances, including the birth of her fourth child this summer.
Leavitt was last seen with President Trump and his team on Tuesday during a trip to Ohio for the Patriot Games. IMAGE7 IMAGE4 IMAGE8