White House Transition

Trump Jokes About Press Secretary's Exit

President quips about Karoline Leavitt's departure, saying she's "very hard to replace" before turning the conversation into a lighthearted comment about her family priorities

Bianca Jones

AUG 17, 2026 14:28

2 min read

President Donald Trump offered a characteristically humorous take when asked about the upcoming departure of White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt and whether he could find a suitable replacement.

The president began by praising Leavitt, emphasizing that she would be difficult to replace. But he quickly shifted to his trademark style of humor, adding a playful jab: "I discovered that Karoline Leavitt loves her children more than she loves Trump. I'm very concerned about that."

The joke referenced Leavitt's decision to step down at the end of August after approximately 20 months in the role. Leavitt, who became the youngest White House Press Secretary in American history, announced she was leaving to spend more time with her family and her two children. She described the decision as difficult but personally meaningful.

She was widely regarded as one of Trump's most loyal and combative allies in dealing with the media. During her tenure, she became known for sharp confrontations with journalists and vigorous defense of the president's policies, significantly changing how the White House conducted briefings and managed press relations.

Beyond the humor, Trump also addressed seriously who might fill her shoes. During the interview, he turned his attention to Fox News correspondent Alexis McAdams, who was sitting across from him, and essentially asked if she would be interested in the position. Trump said she "could do the job" and even asked Leavitt for her opinion on the idea.

Meanwhile, Trump continues to express his appreciation for Leavitt. Even after she leaves the job, she is expected to remain a significant political figure in the Republican camp and maintain ties with Trump as an outside advisor.

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