President Donald Trump announced that White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt will leave her post at the end of the month, describing her as one of his "most trusted aides." Trump said she is departing to spend more time with her young children and family, adding that he understood and supported the decision.
"Karoline will now be one of my top outside advisors, and an influential voice within the Republican Party,"
Trump wrote in a social media post announcing the change.
What has Leavitt's recent schedule looked like?
Leavitt only recently returned to her public duties after a period of maternity leave. According to a report from a celebrity news outlet, she resumed her post in the briefing room on 16 July 2026, delivering her first press briefing since giving birth to her daughter, Viviana, on 1 May 2026.
When did her leave begin, and who covered her duties?
Her temporary absence from the podium began on 27 April 2026, according to a report from a New Jersey news outlet, which noted that no formal replacement had been named for her position at that time. The same report indicated that the White House communications team, led by Steven Cheung, was expected to manage press operations in her absence, with other administration officials also potentially fielding questions from reporters.
What did Leavitt say before going on leave?
In an informal press gaggle shortly before her departure in April, Leavitt hinted that her time away was approaching.
"This will likely be my last gaggle for some time,"
she said, according to a video posted on social media, adding that she was "about ready to have a baby any minute."
How did Leavitt make history in the role?
Leavitt first took on the position of White House press secretary in January 2025, becoming the youngest person ever to hold the job at the age of 27.
What happens next?
Leavitt is set to depart the press secretary role at the end of the current month, based on Trump's announcement. Trump indicated she would transition into an outside advisory capacity, continuing to serve as an influential figure within the Republican Party even after leaving her official government post.
Key Facts
- Karoline Leavitt will leave her position as White House press secretary at the end of the month.
- She became the youngest person to hold the role at age 27 when she started in January 2025.
- Leavitt gave birth to her daughter, Viviana, on 1 May 2026, after beginning maternity leave on 27 April 2026.
- She returned to briefing duties on 16 July 2026, delivering her first briefing since giving birth.
- Trump said Leavitt will become a top outside advisor and an influential voice in the Republican Party.
