Who will replace Karoline Leavitt? Alina Habba, others in contention as White House Press Secretary steps down

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt announced her departure from the role at the end of August, prompting speculation about who will fill her position. Leavitt, 28, had been a prominent public face for President Donald Trump, defending his policies and leading the administration's briefing room announcements. Her decision to step down came as a surprise, as she had seemed settled in the role and was even viewed by some as a potential press secretary for the entirety of Trump's second term.

Leavitt cited a desire to spend more time with her two young children as the reason for her departure, but she will continue to serve as a close advisor to Trump. President Trump has not yet announced his choice for the position, leaving several candidates in contention. Among the early frontrunners is Alina Habba, a former acting U.S. attorney and one of Trump's former lawyers.

Habba has gained visibility through her appearances defending the president during legal battles and her work as a counselor in the West Wing. Her extensive experience in communicating Trump's messaging could make her a natural fit for the briefing room. Another potential candidate is Matthew Boyle, Breitbart Washington Bureau Chief, who has a personal relationship with Trump and has been a frequent interview subject for the president.

Trump allies view Boyle as a steady but forceful figure within conservative media, with deep familiarity of the administration's political battles. The White House has yet to make a decision, but the field of potential replacements remains fluid, with names such as Taylor Budowich, Steven Cheung, Katie Miller, Anna Kelly, Monica Crowley, Jason Miller, Scott Jennings, and Kari Lake also being discussed.