Donald Trump has announced that Karoline Leavitt, 27, will serve as White House press secretary in his potential next administration, making her the youngest person to hold this position in US history. Trump praised Leavitt as a “smart, tough, and highly effective communicator” who will help “deliver our message to the American People.”
Leavitt’s professional journey began during her time at Saint Anselm College in New Hampshire, where she studied communications and political science. While in school, she interned at Fox News and in Trump’s White House press office, experiences that sparked her interest in press relations.
After graduating in 2019, Leavitt quickly became part of Trump’s first administration. She initially worked as a presidential writer and later as an assistant press secretary. During this time, she helped prepare Press Secretary Kayleigh McEnany for briefings and positioned herself as a defender against what she perceived as biased mainstream media.
Following her White House role, Leavitt served as communications director for Republican Congresswoman Elise Stefanik. She then ran for Congress in New Hampshire’s first congressional district in 2022, winning the Republican nomination but ultimately losing the general election to Democrat Chris Pappas.
Her political platform closely aligned with Trump’s priorities. She advocated for tax cuts, free-market policies, strong law enforcement, and a hardline stance on immigration, including completing the border wall and implementing a “ZERO tolerance” approach to illegal immigration.
In January 2024, Leavitt joined Trump’s third presidential campaign as press secretary, setting the stage for her recent appointment. She will break the previous record held by Ron Ziegler, who was 29 when appointed by Richard Nixon in 1969.
Trump’s first administration was characterized by frequent changes in press secretary, with multiple individuals holding the role, including Sean Spicer, Sarah Huckabee Sanders, Stephanie Grisham, and Kayleigh McEnany. These transitions often reflected the tumultuous communication strategy of the administration.
The White House press secretary role is notoriously challenging, particularly during Trump’s presidency, which was marked by contentious relationships with the media. Leavitt’s appointment suggests a continuation of the combative communication style seen during Trump’s previous term.
Her selection reflects Trump’s preference for loyal communicators who are willing to strongly advocate for his political agenda. At just 27, Leavitt represents a new generation of political communications professionals who have risen through the ranks of Trump’s political ecosystem.
As she prepares to take the podium in the White House briefing room, Leavitt will be responsible for representing the administration’s messaging and managing interactions with the press, a role that will undoubtedly be closely watched by political observers and media professionals.
