Key facts
- Karoline Leavitt is resigning as White House press secretary.
- Leavitt's last day will be at the end of the month.
- Stephen Cheung, White House communications director, is a potential successor.
Karoline Leavitt's departure as White House press secretary is sparking a contest for the prominent role within Donald Trump's administration. Several potential candidates, including Stephen Cheung, Alina Habba, Anna Kelly, Katie Miller, and Taylor Budowich, are being considered to replace her.
The selection of a new White House press secretary is significant as this individual serves as the primary spokesperson for the administration, shaping public perception and disseminating official communications.
The resignation of Karoline Leavitt as White House press secretary is expected to ignite a competitive race for one of the most visible positions within Donald Trump's administration. Leavitt is set to depart at the end of the month to focus on family matters.
Several individuals are reportedly being considered as potential successors. Stephen Cheung, currently serving as White House communications director, has worked closely with Leavitt and is seen as a contender. Alina Habba, a vocal defender of the president and his former personal lawyer, is also cited as an early frontrunner, according to administration sources.
Other potential candidates include Anna Kelly, the principal deputy press secretary who previously worked on Trump's 2024 campaign and for the Republican National Committee. Katie Miller, wife of aide Stephen Miller and a former press secretary for Vice President Mike Pence, is also in consideration. Taylor Budowich, a former White House deputy chief of staff, rounds out the list of potential replacements.