Leavitt Set to Depart Trump Admin For Brief Maternity Leave

The most prominent figure in the White House briefing room is expected to step back temporarily in the coming months. Karoline Leavitt, who became the youngest press secretary in U.S. history, is expecting her second child, a daughter, due in May.

Her anticipated leave has prompted speculation in Washington about who will assume briefing duties in her absence, with several potential successors emerging from within the press office.

Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly is widely viewed as a leading internal candidate. She joined the White House in January after serving in senior communications roles at the Republican National Committee and in the House of Representatives, according to a Saturday report.

Kelly also serves as a special assistant to Donald Trump, a role noted on her social media profile and one that places her in close proximity to senior decision-making within the administration. Her background extends beyond government and political communications. In 2019, Kelly was crowned Miss State Fair of Virginia, a title she used to promote civic engagement among young Americans.