The Press Secretary search is intensifying as Karoline Leavitt prepares to leave the White House after 19 months. President Donald Trump has not announced her replacement, prompting speculation about several trusted figures within his political circle.
Leavitt plans to spend more time with her two young children while continuing to support Trump outside government. She is expected to join MAGA Inc., a political organization aligned with the president, after leaving her West Wing position.
The 29-year-old communications official described her departure as difficult because she enjoys representing the administration publicly. However, she also emphasized that her young family needs more of her attention during this stage.
Meanwhile, the White House faces an unusual transition because Trump has not selected a permanent successor yet. Instead, administration officials are expected to rotate through press briefings while the president considers his options.
Several prominent names have emerged during the speculation surrounding the administration’s next communications chief. Among them are senior adviser Stephen Miller, political commentator Scott Jennings, and Leavitt’s deputy Anna Kelly.
Former Trump attorney Alina Habba previously attracted significant attention as a potential candidate for the position. However, Habba has publicly rejected speculation that she remains interested in joining the White House communications team.
Kelly has already gained experience representing the administration during Leavitt’s earlier maternity leave. Although she appeared frequently in media interviews, she has not yet taken over regular White House briefings.
Jennings has also attracted attention because Trump has praised his political commentary and publicly described him favorably. Furthermore, Jennings reportedly had consideration for the position during Trump’s return to the White House.
Stephen Miller and his wife, Katie Miller, have also emerged in speculation about potential replacements. Stephen Miller currently holds a senior White House position, while Katie Miller previously worked in prominent communications roles.
Another possibility involves White House communications director Steven Cheung, one of Trump’s most outspoken defenders. Although Cheung generally operates away from the briefing podium, he maintains considerable influence within Trump’s communications operation.
Other names reportedly circulating include Matthew Boyle, a Washington bureau chief at a conservative media organization. Former White House deputy chief of staff Taylor Budowich also remains among the figures mentioned.
Former White House press secretary Sean Spicer believes Trump’s next choice will likely come from his existing political orbit. According to Spicer, the president values someone who understands his priorities and communicates them effectively.
Spicer also highlighted two major responsibilities involved in the position, including public communication and behind-the-scenes coordination. The next officeholder will therefore face pressure to manage government messaging while navigating an increasingly political environment.
Former White House press secretary Dana Perino similarly emphasized the challenges awaiting whoever takes over the position. She noted that the final years of a presidency often become increasingly connected to upcoming elections.
That challenge could become particularly significant after the 2026 midterm elections, when attention will begin shifting toward 2028. The administration’s communications strategy could consequently play an important role in defending Trump’s record and advancing his agenda.
Leavitt has earned a reputation as one of Trump’s most visible and loyal communicators during his second administration. Her departure therefore creates a significant opening for someone capable of maintaining the president’s preferred messaging style.
The next Press Secretary will also inherit a demanding relationship with reporters covering the White House. Furthermore, the individual will likely face intense scrutiny over administration policies, personnel decisions, and Trump’s political priorities.
Leavitt’s tenure already ranks among the longest for a Trump press secretary across his two presidential terms. Her 19-month stint trails only Sarah Huckabee Sanders, who served 23 months during Trump’s first administration.
After Sanders left the position, Stephanie Grisham served for approximately nine months without holding a traditional press briefing. Kayleigh McEnany subsequently became Trump’s final press secretary during his first presidential term.
Now, Trump faces another important communications decision as his administration approaches the second half of his presidency. Until he makes that choice, speculation will continue surrounding who eventually becomes the next Press Secretary.
