Sonny Joy Nelson, one of the key communications figures in President Donald Trump’s administration and a close associate of White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, is preparing to leave the White House to establish her own media consultancy.
Nelson will step down from her position as Special Assistant to the President and Director of Media Affairs as she begins a new chapter leading her own communications business.
According to reports from the Daily Beast and Axios, Nelson’s new company will operate under the name Cornerstone Strategics and will focus on media booking and communications strategy.
Her departure comes while Leavitt is on maternity leave following the birth of her second child, a daughter named Viviana.
A new business built around communications
Nelson has played an important role in the administration’s media operation after previously working on Donald Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign before joining the White House.
She has also held communications positions within Trump’s political circle since 2020, building experience across several conservative media and political organisations.
Speaking to Axios, Nelson explained the inspiration behind the name of her new company.
She said Cornerstone Strategics was “inspired by Jesus as the cornerstone of my life.”
Nelson added that her goal is to “create media that not only looks good, but communicates something real and lasting.”
The new consultancy will specialise in media booking and communications strategy as Nelson transitions from government service into private business.
Praise from Karoline Leavitt
Before Nelson’s departure, Karoline Leavitt offered a glowing tribute to her colleague’s work.
“Sonny is the best media booker in the business—and it’s not even close,” Leavitt told Axios.
She also praised Nelson’s professionalism and character, adding, “But, most importantly, she is well respected by everyone she works with because she’s a hard worker and a great person.”
Prior to serving in the White House, Nelson worked as director of media affairs and surrogates for the Trump-Vance campaign. According to the White House, her previous experience also includes communications roles with GETTR, Real America’s Voice, the Republican National Committee and Donald Trump’s 2020 campaign.
Preparing for another milestone
Nelson’s career move comes as she is also preparing to welcome her second child.
She announced in March that she is expecting a baby boy in October.
Nelson has also been publicly recognised for her Christian faith and anti-abortion advocacy, with her faith serving as a central influence on both her public profile and the branding of her new company.
According to Axios, Nelson’s final day at the White House is scheduled for Friday. At the time of her departure, no successor for her current role had been announced.
