Trump Eyes Male Press Secretary, Sidelines Women in White House Role
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President Donald Trump is reportedly favoring a male candidate to replace outgoing press secretary Karoline Leavitt, with conservative figures like Scott Jennings and former Bush aide Ari Fleischer in the mix, raising concerns about gender equity in the administration.
President Donald Trump has signaled to senior advisers his preference for a man to replace Karoline Leavitt as White House press secretary, according to sources familiar with the discussions. Leavitt, who has held the position since the start of Trump’s second term, plans to step down at the end of August, continuing only as an outside senior adviser.
The shortlist of men being considered includes right-wing commentator Scott Jennings, widely reported as a leading contender, and Ari Fleischer, who previously served as press secretary under President George W. Bush. One source noted that Trump has yet to make a final decision, but the clear preference for male candidates highlights the administration’s ongoing disregard for gender representation and diversity in leadership roles.
Trump is reportedly in no rush to fill the vacancy, as the White House may continue the briefing format used during Leavitt’s recent maternity leave, when Vice President JD Vance and several cabinet members—such as Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent—handled press briefings. This approach further sidelines women from visible positions of power.
Another potential candidate, Natalie Harp, a former aide and right-wing media personality from One America News Network, was mentioned by a source close to the White House. The source cynically suggested that media attention could propel her into the role, stating, “She was on OANN,” and implying that the media might “make her press secretary.” This comment underscores the administration’s transactional approach to appointments, prioritizing loyalty and media presence over qualifications or a commitment to gender equity.