Trump aides uneasy as White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt announces resignation
Karoline Leavitt, the White House press secretary, will leave her post at the end of the month, prompting anxiety among senior Trump officials.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt plans to step down at month’s end, adding to a recent wave of female senior staffers leaving the Trump administration. At 28, she had just returned from maternity leave on July 16 following the birth of her second child with husband Nicholas Riccio, and had been contemplating her exit for some time. While on leave, President Trump reportedly called her frequently to discuss her return date, prompting her early comeback at his urging.
Insiders describe her resignation as a difficult personal choice and warn that it creates uncertainty about how the administration will handle its extensive agenda. A contest is already under way among other staffers, including former DHS press secretary Katie Zacharia and principal deputy press secretary Anna Kelly, to fill the vacancy. The White House has not responded to requests for comment.
Why it matters
Leavitt’s exit highlights growing instability and staffing challenges within the Trump White House.
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