Karoline Leavitt announces departure from the White House

Karoline Leavitt, press secretary to President Donald Trump, announced her decision to leave the position on Wednesday. She said that the motherhood of her second daughter prevents her from devoting the time required by the role, but she will remain as an external advisor.

Karoline Leavitt's departure

Leavitt's resignation, at 28 years old, was announced by the president himself, who described her as one of his "most trusted aides." Her departure marks a breaking point in the White House communications team, recognized for its central role in attacking the traditional press establishment.

Family reason for the decision

Leavitt revealed that, after the birth of her second daughter on May 1, she realized she could not be the mother she wanted to be while maintaining the "constant time, energy and attention" demanded by the job. This statement was the main reason presented for the resignation.

Roles and controversies in the position

During her tenure, Leavitt controlled the journalist credentialing system, deciding who attended presidential events and adding streamers, conservative radio hosts and podcasters to the permanent press corps. She also imposed restrictions on the Associated Press, excluding the agency from certain events and from Air Force One flights. In her first briefing, she claimed the Biden administration would allocate $50 million to Gaza condominiums, an allegation contradicted by USAID records.

Impact on the White House‑press relationship

Leavitt became known for her confrontational style, using attacks on journalists to expose "the fissures" of traditional journalism. She participated in the White House Correspondents' Association Dinner, an event that was rescheduled after an armed attack attempt in April, and announced her departure amid controversies over using reporters as bait on presidential flights.

Outlook for the future of Trump communication

With Leavitt's exit, Trump may face difficulty finding a replacement who combines rhetorical skill with media control. Meanwhile, the president indicated that Leavitt will continue to advise the administration as an external consultant, maintaining her influence on the government's communication strategies.

With information from CNN, The Guardian.