Key facts
- Karoline Leavitt is stepping down as White House press secretary at the end of August.
- Trump often seeks candidates for White House staff and Cabinet positions who are telegenic and speak with authority.
- Five of the six press secretaries across Trump's two terms in office have been women.
- Leavitt, 28, was the youngest press secretary in White House history.
Karoline Leavitt's impending departure as White House press secretary has ignited speculation about who President Donald Trump will select as his next chief spokesperson. Leavitt, who cited a desire to spend more time with her children, will formally leave her post at the end of August.
White House press secretaries are primarily known for their role in fielding questions from reporters and setting the tone for the administration's agenda. Trump has historically favored candidates who fit his idea of "central casting," looking for individuals who are telegenic and possess an authoritative speaking style.
Across Trump's two terms, five of the six press secretaries have been women. Leavitt herself was notable for being the youngest press secretary in White House history at age 28.
While Trump has not revealed his preferences, several names are reportedly being considered and are gaining attention in betting markets. These include Alina Habba, a former personal attorney for Trump who frequently appeared on his behalf during legal proceedings; Scott Jennings, a conservative political commentator and author; Anna Kelly, principal deputy press secretary who has been increasingly deployed for interviews; Katie Miller, former press secretary for Vice President Mike Pence; and Matthew Boyle, Washington bureau chief.