Donald Trump took to his Truth Social account on Thursday night to playfully engage with media speculation regarding the successor to White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt. Leavitt announced her resignation last week, stating her desire to spend more time with her family. Trump shared an AI-generated image depicting himself addressing the press in the White House Briefing Room with the caption, "The Best Press Secretary."
Leavitt, 28, who gave birth to her second child in May, announced her departure, citing the demands of her role alongside motherhood. "Being a mother and welcoming a new baby while working in one of the most demanding jobs in the world has been the most rewarding yet challenging season of my life, to say the least," Leavitt wrote on X. She added that she felt she could not be the best mother to her two young children while dedicating the required time and energy to the role of White House Press Secretary.
Trump expressed his understanding and respect for Leavitt's decision, calling her "one of the best White House press secretaries in the history of the office." He indicated that she would continue to serve as a top outside adviser and an influential voice within the Republican Party.
Amidst the speculation about Leavitt's replacement, reports have suggested that CNN political commentator Scott Jennings is being considered for the position. A source close to Jennings reportedly stated, "It's his if he wants it. And he does." However, insiders have also indicated that Trump has expressed a preference for a woman to succeed Leavitt, despite being a fan of Jennings, a former George W. Bush aide.
Former U.S. Attorney Alina Habba has also reportedly been lobbying for the press secretary role. Another individual being mentioned as a potential candidate is Elizabeth Pipko, a former model and spokeswoman for the Republican National Committee.
Sources suggest that Trump is in no rush to fill the position and that he alone will make the final decision. Previously, various cabinet secretaries, including Vice President J.D. Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, temporarily filled in at the press briefing podium during Leavitt's maternity leave.
Leavitt, who joined Trump's orbit in 2018, has been noted for her assertive style at the podium, often mirroring the former president's approach in challenging journalists. Her departure follows other recent exits from the communications team, including deputy press secretary Abigail Jackson and director of media affairs Sonny Joy Nelson.