Karoline Leavitt says she's leaving her role as press secretary

Prominent spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt is leaving her role as White House Press Secretary, just three months before the crucial US midterm elections. The decision comes as she returns from maternity leave. In a post on X, Leavitt said she had chosen to prioritize motherhood. "Since returning to the White House after the birth of my daughter, I have felt in my heart that I cannot be the best mom my two young children deserve while devoting the constant time, energy, and attention required of the White House Press Secretary," she wrote.

Donald Trump, her former boss, expressed understanding and respect for her decision. He noted that Leavitt will now serve as one of his top outside advisors and an influential voice within the Republican Party. Midterm elections pose a significant challenge for Trump's Republican Party, as polls suggest they may struggle to retain control of Congress.

His personal approval rating has hit a record low, with 33 per cent, while his disapproval rating stands at 62 per cent, the highest recorded. Leavitt, who was 27 when she took the position, is the youngest press secretary in US history. She had previously served as an assistant press secretary during Trump's first term and developed a reputation for being a loyal and combative spokeswoman for Trump's policies.

She frequently clashed with reporters who questioned him, and staunchly defended his baseless claims about the 2020 election.