Karoline Leavitt prepares for baby’s arrival as White House plans temporary press duties
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt is stepping away from the podium as she prepares to welcome her baby girl, offering a brief and personal farewell to reporters just days before her expected due date.
Speaking on April 24, Leavitt signaled that her time away is imminent. “This will likely be my last gaggle for some time,” she said, noting that she is “about ready to have a baby any minute.” Her remarks underscored that the long-anticipated moment is now just days away.
Leavitt, 28, had previously shared that her second child is due in May, confirming the timeline in an earlier Instagram announcement following Christmas. She also told reporters she plans to attend the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner on April 25, suggesting her departure from daily duties is happening immediately after.
Due date approaches as Leavitt steps back
The press secretary’s expected due date in May places her departure at a critical moment, with her own comments indicating the birth could happen at any time. Despite stepping away, Leavitt expressed confidence in the team she is leaving behind.
“I know you’ll be in very good hands with my team here at the White House,” she told reporters, adding a lighthearted remark that many in the press already have direct access to Donald Trump.
Leavitt has remained a highly visible figure in the administration, previously working as a campaign spokesperson and returning to work shortly after the birth of her first child in July 2024.
No formal replacement as duties are shared
While Leavitt takes maternity leave, the White House is not naming a single replacement. Instead, officials confirmed that various members of the administration will rotate responsibilities at the briefing lectern.
According to reporting from Politico and remarks cited by Dasha Burns, those stepping in could include Cabinet officials, JD Vance, or even President Trump himself.
In the meantime, the communications office will continue operating under the leadership of communications director Steven Cheung, supported by Leavitt’s existing team.
Although the duration of her leave has not been specified, Leavitt told reporters she expects to return soon, closing her remarks with a simple promise: “see you guys very soon.”
