Donald Trump has suggested Fox News National Correspondent Alexis McAdams as a potential successor to White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, who is stepping down at the end of August. During an interview, Trump told McAdams, "I've always liked you," before offering her the role.
Leavitt's resignation announcement
Trump announced on Wednesday, 12th August, that the 28-year-old press secretary would depart at the end of August. In a Truth Social post, he wrote that Leavitt is resigning "so she can spend more time with her beautiful young children and family, a decision I totally understand and respect!" Leavitt confirmed the news on X, describing it as "bittersweet" and explaining she felt unable to be the "best mom" her children deserve "while devoting the constant time, energy, and attention" needed for the role.
Trump's offer to McAdams
During the interview, McAdams asked whether Leavitt was replaceable. Trump gestured towards Leavitt, who was off screen, saying she had done a "great job," but joked, "I found out she likes her children more than she likes Trump. I'm very concerned about that." When McAdams asked if he had anyone in mind for the podium, Trump responded, "I would say you. How about you?" He then turned to Leavitt for her thoughts before telling McAdams, "I've always liked you, this is why I am doing this. I don't do this that often." McAdams thanked Trump warmly for his kind words.
Background on Leavitt and McAdams
Leavitt took up the role in January 2025 when Trump began his second term. She has been a divisive figure due to her defence of Trump and has faced criticism for her confrontational attitude towards the media. Leavitt welcomed her daughter Viviana "Vivi" Riccio on May 1, her second child with husband Nicholas Riccio. Their son Nicholas "Niko" Robert Riccio was born in July 2024. McAdams, 34, has been with Fox News since October 2021.
