White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt's unexpected announcement of her resignation has triggered immediate speculation within President Donald Trump's inner circle regarding her successor. Trump announced Leavitt's departure on social media Wednesday afternoon, following a conversation with her about the decision. Leavitt was last seen with the president and his team during a trip to Ohio on Tuesday.
Sources close to the White House told the Daily Mail that while Leavitt kept the details of her departure private, "change was in the air" in recent weeks. The absence of an immediate replacement announcement from Trump on his social media platform suggests no single candidate has been definitively chosen. A source close to the White House described Leavitt as "irreplaceable."
Longtime Trump communicator Jason Miller, who rejoined the White House in July, is expected to take a leading role in press operations, though it remains unclear if he will brief from the podium. In the interim, West Wing staff may revert to the routine established when Leavitt was on maternity leave.
Several individuals are reportedly being considered for the role. Principal Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly, described as a former beauty queen, would technically be next in line, but some sources believe Trump may select someone from outside the current White House staff. Former Department of Homeland Security Press Secretary Katie Zacharia, who left the DHS with former Secretary Kristi Noem, is also seen as a possible candidate, with one source noting Trump frequently shared clips of her media appearances.
Other names circulating include Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who reportedly performed well at the podium during Leavitt's absence. Former counselor to the president Alina Habba is also mentioned, despite having left the White House in March 2025. Katie Miller, a former spokesperson for Vice President Mike Pence, has also been rumored as a candidate, though sources indicate she is unlikely to accept the position due to recent family commitments.
CNN political commentator Scott Jennings is also a popular choice among Washington insiders, drawing comparisons to former George W. Bush press secretary Tony Snow. Jennings is credited with having the "gravitas" to handle the press room, possessing the ability to engage in sharp exchanges while maintaining a professional demeanor.
An unusual name being floated is Bill Pulte, Director of US Federal Housing and a loyal Trump aide, who previously served as acting director of national intelligence. However, one source suggested that White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles might oppose such an appointment.
Departures from the press team have also occurred recently, with White House Deputy Press Secretary Abigail Jackson leaving last week and Director of Media Affairs Sonny Joy Nelson departing earlier in the year. Former DHS Press Secretary Katie Zacharia is seen as a possible replacement for Karoline Leavitt. Principal Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly could also be in the running. 
