White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt, the youngest person to hold the role, will leave her position at the end of August, President Donald Trump announced Wednesday, describing her as one of his “most trusted aides.”
Leavitt, 28, said she recently returned from maternity leave after the birth of her second child, a daughter named Viviana, in May. She told supporters in a social media post that balancing the demands of the press secretary role with raising her two young children had become untenable.
“Since returning to the White House after the birth of my daughter, I have felt in my heart that I cannot be the best mom my two young children deserve while devoting the constant time, energy, and attention required of the White House press secretary,” Leavitt said.
Trump said Leavitt would transition to a role as a top outside advisor and remain “an influential voice within the Republican Party” as the administration pushes toward the midterm elections. He did not announce a successor for the position.
Leavitt became the 36th and youngest White House press secretary in U.S. history when she took the role in January 2025 at age 27. She previously served as a press aide during Trump’s first term and as his campaign national press secretary during the 2024 race.
During her tenure, Leavitt became one of the most visible figures in the administration, known for aggressive defenses of Trump’s policies on camera and a combative relationship with the press corps. She briefly stepped away earlier this year for maternity leave, during which Secretary of State Marco Rubio filled in at the podium on several occasions.
The departure comes at a politically sensitive time for the administration. With midterm elections approaching and Trump facing ongoing scrutiny over multiple policy fronts, including the Iran conflict and economic concerns, the White House will need to quickly name a replacement who can maintain its communications strategy.
Political observers noted that Leavitt’s departure marks the second major staff shakeup this month, following reports of broader restructuring within the communications shop. The administration has not indicated whether it will promote from within or seek an outside replacement.
Sources:
San Diego Union-Tribune – White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt to leave at month’s end
The Guardian – Trump’s press secretary Karoline Leavitt leaving role
AP News – Live updates on Trump administration
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