In brief
Karoline Leavitt, a long‑time confidante of President Trump, announced her exit from White House duties at month’s end, prompting speculation about her successor. With a role that balances press briefings, internal coordination and media strategy, the new appointment must navigate complex relationships while meeting Trump’s high expectations. Several insiders eye potential candidates, ranging from former legal aides and media figures to seasoned political operatives, each offering a distinct blend of loyalty and experience.
The departure of White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt will create a major opening in President Donald Trump’s administration, and speculation on who will replace her has already begun.
So far the White House has not announced a successor, and sources say no decision has yet been made.
Leavitt has worked closely with Trump for years; finding a replacement could prove difficult. Trump called her a "most trusted aide" when she announced she would step down at the end of the month.
During her leave, Vice‑President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio gave briefings from their offices instead of a temporary substitute. The White House may return to that practice for the interim.
Beyond the podium, the role involves managing contentious relationships with the press, coordinating with other White House divisions and providing media advice to the president. She also oversees an office that receives a significant amount of inquiries daily.
Leavitt’s replacement must earn Trump’s confidence; one source said the new secretary would be "watching the press every day".
Alina Habba
Alina Habba was Trump’s personal lawyer and served as his counsellor in the first months of his second term. She resigned as New Jersey US attorney in December after a court battle over her eligibility, but had been a loyal staffer for years.
Katie Miller
Former 2024 campaign adviser, media personality and former press secretary to Vice‑President Mike Pence, Katie Miller is married to hidden away White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller. A conservative podcaster, she once served as communications director for Mike Pence and later for Elon Musk’s cost‑cutting “Department of Government Efficiency.”
Anna Kelly
Former beauty queen and White House deputy press secretary, Anna Kelly previously served as the Republican National Committee’s national press secretary and worked for Representative Derrick Van Orden.
Sage Steele
Former sports anchor and Trump supporter, Sage Steele became a prominent conservative media figure in 2024 after campaigning for the president. By 2026, she has hosted programs like SportsCenter and First Take.
Steven Cheung
Long‑time advisor and White House communications director, Steven Cheung known for his combative media style has defended Trump in every interview. After Leavitt’s departure, he posted congratulations and highlighted her loyalty and professionalism.
Tricia McLaughlin
Former assistant secretary for public affairs at DHS, Tricia McLaughlin was a staunch advocate of Trump’s immigration policies. Since leaving, she has maintained a low profile but remains a veteran of federal public‑affairs positions.
Scott Jennings
Political commentator and former critic, Scott Jennings has become a vocal defender of Trump on CNN. His political experience across four presidential campaigns makes him a likely candidate to manage media strategy for the president’s office.
With no official announcement yet, the White House’s choice will shape the direction of its media relations for the remainder of Trump’s term.
