White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt will resign from her position at the end of this month to focus on her family. President Donald Trump announced the departure on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, describing Leavitt as one of his “most trusted assistants” while confirming she will transition into a role as a key external advisor and an influential voice within the Republican Party.
The Decision Behind the Departure
Leavitt, who at 28 became the youngest person to hold the role of White House Press Secretary, cited the challenges of balancing a high-pressure political career with motherhood. After returning from maternity leave last month following the birth of her second child, a daughter, she concluded that the demands of the office were incompatible with her personal priorities. She and her husband, Nicholas Riccio, also have a two-year-old son.
In a statement posted to X, Leavitt described the role as the “honor and adventure of a lifetime.” However, she noted that since returning to the White House, she felt she could not provide the level of attention her children deserve while simultaneously meeting the rigorous requirements of her post. According to Leavitt, this realization led to her “bitter” decision to step down and begin a new chapter.
Did you know?
Karoline Leavitt holds the distinction of being the second-longest-serving press secretary during the Trump administration, surpassed only by Sarah Huckabee Sanders.
Professional Legacy and Media Relations
Leavitt’s tenure was marked by a distinct communication style that often placed her at odds with members of the press corps. She frequently accused various reporters of harboring political bias or leaning toward left-wing ideologies. Despite these conflicts, she earned significant praise from supporters of the Trump administration for her ability to remain “on message” and her persistent defense of the President’s policy agenda.
While the White House has not yet announced a successor, Leavitt’s transition into an external advisory role suggests a continued influence on the Republican platform.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who will replace Karoline Leavitt as Press Secretary?
As of mid-August 2026, the White House has not named a successor for the position. - What is Karoline Leavitt’s next role?
President Trump stated that Leavitt will serve as a primary external advisor and act as an influential voice for the Republican Party. - How long did Leavitt serve as Press Secretary?
Leavitt began the role last year and is the second-longest-serving press secretary of the Trump administration.
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