White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt has announced plans to step down at the end of August, bringing an end to her historic run as the youngest person to hold the podium. President Donald Trump shared the news publicly, explaining that the 28-year-old official is choosing to shift her focus toward her family and two young children.
Having recently returned to the West Wing following maternity leave for the birth of her second child in May, Leavitt noted that balancing the intense demands of the briefing room with caring for a newborn and a toddler proved unsustainable. In a personal reflection, she described the position as the honor of a lifetime while acknowledging she could no longer give the White House the constant attention it requires without sacrificing her role as a mother.
Although she is relinquishing her daily briefing duties, Leavitt will remain in the administration's orbit. President Trump confirmed she will transition into a top outside adviser, supporting the Republican Party as it prepares for the upcoming midterm elections. Trump praised her as a dedicated leader and one of the most effective press secretaries in White House history, expressing full backing for her decision to put family first.
Prior to stepping up to the podium, Leavitt built a strong national profile working on Trump's re-election campaign and running for a congressional seat in New Hampshire, cementing her reputation as a key voice for his platform. The administration has not yet designated a successor to take over the briefing room.