Karoline Leavitt is set to step down from her role as White House Press Secretary at the end of August. She intends to focus more on her two young children but will remain close to President Donald Trump as a key external advisor and continue to play an active role within the Republican Party.
President Trump shared the news of her departure on Wednesday via Truth Social. The Associated Press reported that the 28-year-old official had recently returned to the White House following a brief leave after the birth of her second child.
Leavitt made history as the youngest individual to ever hold the position of presidential press secretary.
Trump expressed that Leavitt would be leaving her position at the month's end to prioritize her "beautiful young children and family." He emphasized that he fully understands and respects her decision.
Despite her departure from the White House, Trump assured that she would remain within his political circle.
"Karoline will transition into one of my top external advisors and continue to be an influential voice within the Republican Party," Trump stated, highlighting her ongoing importance as Republicans prepare for the midterm elections.
Trump praised Leavitt's work extensively, describing her as one of his most trusted associates.
He also lauded her as "a true leader in the White House," placing her among the best press secretaries in the history of the U.S. presidency.
Leavitt herself noted that her decision was directly tied to her role as a mother and the challenges of balancing her demanding job with caring for her two children.
"Since returning to the White House after my daughter's birth, I've felt in my heart that I cannot be the best mom my two young children deserve while dedicating the constant time, energy, and focus required as the White House Press Secretary," she explained.
Leavitt described her decision to step down as "bittersweet," marking the start of a new chapter in her life.
Her daughter, Viviana, affectionately known as "Vivi," was born on May 1. Leavitt worked up until shortly before giving birth and then took leave to be with her family.
Viviana is the second child of Leavitt and her husband, Nicholas Riccio. The couple also has a son, Nicholas Robert "Niko," who was born in July 2024. After her first child's birth, Leavitt quickly returned to Trump's presidential campaign during the intense electoral race of that year.
During her recent maternity leave, various high-ranking officials temporarily took over her press duties.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio was among those who stepped in at the White House podium during Leavitt's absence.
Leavitt has maintained a strong political bond with Trump over several years.
Prior to becoming Press Secretary, she served as a spokesperson for MAGA Inc., a political committee supporting Trump, and later joined his 2024 presidential campaign.
Her Washington journey began during Trump's first term, working in the presidential press office. She later served as Communications Director for Republican Congresswoman Elise Stefanik.
In 2022, Leavitt made a congressional bid in New Hampshire. She won a competitive Republican primary but lost the general election to Democrat Chris Pappas.
Trump has yet to announce who will succeed Leavitt as White House Press Secretary.
Karoline Leavitt's Departure from the White House: Key Questions
Why is Karoline Leavitt stepping down from her position?
Karoline Leavitt is leaving her role to focus more on her family, particularly her two young children, as she finds it challenging to balance her responsibilities as Press Secretary with motherhood.
Will Karoline Leavitt continue working with Donald Trump?
Yes, Leavitt will remain close to Trump as one of his main external advisors and continue to serve as an influential voice within the Republican Party.
Who will replace Karoline Leavitt as White House Press Secretary?
As of now, President Trump has not announced a successor to Karoline Leavitt as White House Press Secretary.