Trump says White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt to leave post

Trump says White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt to leave post

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt will step down from her position at the end of August, President Donald Trump announced Wednesday. The departure of the 28-year-old, who is the youngest person to ever hold the role, comes after she spent nearly 18 months leading the administration's communications operations.

President Trump announced the news on social media, stating that Leavitt is leaving so she can spend more time with her family. He described her as one of his most trusted aides and stated that he totally understands and respects the decision.

Leavitt's exit follows a brief maternity leave in May for the birth of her daughter, Viviana. In a post on X, Leavitt explained that since returning to the White House, she felt she could not be the best mother to her two young children—which include a two-year-old son—while meeting the constant time, energy, and attention required by her role.

"Serving as the White House Press Secretary over the past year and a half has been the honor and adventure of a lifetime,"

Karoline Leavitt, White House Press Secretary, via X

Leavitt described the decision to depart as bittersweet and noted that balancing the demands of one of the most challenging jobs in the world with motherhood had been a rewarding yet difficult season. She added that she has relished holding the liberal media accountable during her tenure.

Despite her departure from the West Wing, Trump indicated that Leavitt will remain a prominent figure in Republican politics. He announced on Truth Social that she will become one of his top outside advisors and an influential voice within the Republican Party as the party works to win the upcoming midterm elections.

Trump has not yet outlined any plans for who will replace Leavitt in the high-profile position.

Leavitt's career with Trump spans several years and roles. She previously served as a press aide in the White House press office during Trump's first term. She later held the position of communications director for New York Republican Representative Elise Stefanik and worked as a spokesperson for the Trump-supporting super PAC MAGA Inc. Before joining his 2024 presidential campaign.

Her political experience also includes a 2022 run for Congress in New Hampshire. While she won a 10-way Republican primary, she ultimately lost the general election to incumbent Democratic Representative Chris Pappas.

Leavitt served as a spokesperson for the transition team following Trump's election victory before being appointed press secretary upon his return to office in January 2025. During her time in the role, she was known as a fierce defender of the president, often delivering aggressive performances during combative press briefings.

The transition occurs as the Republican Party prepares for the November midterm congressional elections, a period during which Trump faces sinking poll numbers.