As the search for a successor to White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt intensifies across Washington, sources close to the administration report that an obvious heir has not yet emerged, raising questions about whether President Donald Trump will fill the role before the November midterms or leave the position vacant for the remainder of his term.
The Succession Timeline and Candidates
Speculation has dominated American media regarding who will take over the podium when Leavitt steps down at the end of August or early September. According to CNN and Politico, which cited two sources near the administration, potential names are surfacing rapidly, yet a definitive choice remains unannounced. While an anonymous Republican Party representative told CNN that the position will be filled soon, a source with close ties to the White House noted that President Trump may delay the appointment until after the midterms in November. Other sources even suggested the role could remain open for the duration of the current presidential term.
Did you know? According to Hilmar Mjelde, a professor of political science at Western Norway University of Applied Sciences, President Trump typically looks for candidates with a strong television presence—often referred to as a “TV face” rather than a “radio face”—when selecting press representatives.
Insiders and Administration Figures in the Mix
Several candidates already tied to the administration are currently under consideration. Mjelde pointed to Steven Cheung as a strong possibility, given his extensive campaign experience and current role as White House Communications Director. Cheung has advised Trump for years, joining the campaign trail back in 2016. Another internal contender is Assistant Press Secretary Anna Kelly, who Politico describes as a natural successor due to her broad portfolio in the press office and frequent appearances across major U.S. media outlets.
Media Profiles and External Contenders
Beyond current staff, outlets like Politico, The Hill, and The Daily Beast have floated several external names. Monica Crowley, a conservative media personality and Trump’s chief of protocol since May 2025, has entered the discussion. Sources speaking to CNN also highlighted Elizabeth Pipko, a former model and Republican National Committee spokesperson with close ties to the Trump family, who was previously vetted for the press secretary job before Leavitt’s appointment.
Other notable names include Alina Habba, whose visibility alongside Trump has drawn frequent media attention. Meanwhile, The Hill reported that Katie Miller—wife of Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller and a former Trump staffer—has been suggested for the post. The Daily Beast has also positioned conservative TV personality and CNN regular Scott Jennings as a leading favorite to take over the daily briefings.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Karoline Leavitt leaving her position?
According to reports, Leavitt is scheduled to step down at the end of August or early September.
Who are the leading candidates to replace Leavitt?
Media reports and analysts have named several potential successors, including Steven Cheung, Anna Kelly, Monica Crowley, Elizabeth Pipko, Alina Habba, Katie Miller, and Scott Jennings.
Will President Trump appoint a new press secretary immediately?
Sources remain divided; while one Republican official indicated the spot will be filled soon, others suggest the announcement could wait until after the November midterms or that the role might remain vacant.
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