WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump has announced that White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt will leave her position at the end of August, bringing a major change to the administration’s communications team just weeks before the 2026 midterm elections.
Trump described Leavitt as one of his most trusted aides and said she had decided to step away from the demanding White House role to spend more time with her young children and family. He also indicated that she would remain involved in his political operation after leaving government.
Leavitt, 28, became the youngest person ever to serve as White House press secretary when she assumed the position at the beginning of Trump’s second administration in January 2025. She previously worked on Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign and held communications positions during his first administration.
During her tenure, Leavitt emerged as one of the administration’s most prominent public figures. Her White House briefings frequently drew national attention, particularly when she forcefully defended Trump’s policies and challenged reporters over questions she considered inaccurate or unfair.
She also played a central role in the administration’s effort to expand access for conservative, independent and digital media organizations. Changes to traditional White House press-access practices generated both praise and criticism, with supporters arguing that the approach broadened representation while opponents warned that it weakened the influence of established news organizations.
Leavitt recently returned to the briefing room following maternity leave after giving birth to her second child, a daughter, in May. She also has a young son.
Her departure comes at a politically sensitive moment for the administration. With the November midterm elections approaching, the White House will need to select a new spokesperson capable of communicating its agenda while managing an increasingly intense political and media environment.
Trump has suggested that Leavitt will remain an important figure within his political movement, potentially serving as a senior outside adviser. Her continued involvement could allow her to maintain influence while stepping away from the daily demands of the White House.
The administration has not yet announced her replacement. Several potential candidates are reportedly being considered, but no successor has been formally named.
Leavitt’s exit will close a highly visible chapter in Trump’s second-term communications strategy. Although she is leaving the briefing room, her political role is expected to continue beyond the White House.
