Trump's spokesperson Karoline Leavitt to step down

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt will depart her role at the end of August, a move announced by President Donald Trump who stated she will continue to serve as a top outside advisor. Leavitt, at 28, is the youngest person to hold the position of White House Press Secretary.

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Our wonderful White House Press Secretary, and one of my most trusted aides, Karoline Leavitt, will be departing her role at the end of the month so she can spend more time with her beautiful young children and family.

Trump described Leavitt as "one of my most trusted aides" and emphasized her ongoing role, saying she would remain "an influential voice within the Republican Party." Leavitt, who earned a reputation for sharp exchanges with journalists and strong defense of the Trump administration, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to speak on behalf of the White House.

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Karoline will now be one of my top outside advisors, and an influential voice within the Republican Party.

Leavitt stated that after returning from maternity leave following the birth of her second child, she realized she could not fully dedicate the necessary attention to her press secretary duties while also being the mother her two young children deserve. Her departure comes at a time when Trump faces declining poll numbers and the Republican Party prepares for the November midterm elections.

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I am thankful to the President for entrusting me with the distinct privilege of speaking on his behalf at the White House podium.

Leavitt's tenure was marked by a revival of regular press briefings, but also by significant shifts in White House-journalist interactions. Notably, in February 2025, she announced that the White House, not an independent correspondents' association, would select reporters for close-up coverage of Trump. Leavitt previously served in Trump's press office during his first term and as his campaign spokesperson in 2024.

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I have relished holding the liberal media accountable and ensuring the American people hear the truth about President Trump’s successes.