Who could replace Karoline Leavitt during her maternity leave? Here are some names doing the rounds

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt’s announcement that she is expecting her second child has sparked early speculation inside Washington about who could step in during her maternity leave. While officials insist she is staying put long term, behind-the-scenes conversations are already underway. Several familiar names are now being quietly floated.


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Why is Karoline Leavitt's role so visible?

At just 28, Karoline Leavitt has become one of the most recognizable voices of the Trump White House. Known for her sharp, direct style, she has taken center stage in daily communications and earned Trump’s praise for her fast-talking approach, once described as having “machine-gun lips," as per a report by The Mirror.

On Friday, Leavitt confirmed to Fox Digital that she is expecting her second child. “My husband and I are thrilled to grow our family and can't wait to watch our son become a big brother,” she said. She added, “My heart is overflowing with gratitude to God for the blessing of motherhood, which I truly believe is the closest thing to Heaven on Earth."

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Will Karoline Leavitt step away from the job?

Despite the speculation, a senior White House official confirmed that Leavitt plans to continue in her role. She recently told Daily Mail she intends to stay for the full four-year term, calling the position a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. That means any change would be temporary, tied only to her maternity leave, as per a report by The Mirror.

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Who could temporarily replace her?

Even with Leavitt staying on, sources say contingency plans are being discussed. The Daily Mail spoke with several current and former Trump administration officials about potential stand-ins.

The most frequently mentioned name is Tricia McLaughlin, Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs at the Department of Homeland Security. Three sources cited her as the leading option, with one calling her the “top choice for 90 percent of the admin.” Another official simply said, “Tricia is a good name.” McLaughlin’s regular appearances on Fox and experience handling communications for one of the administration’s most divisive agencies have made her a familiar figure, as per a report by The Mirror.

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Which other names are being floated?

Another possible candidate is Katie Pavlich, a NewsNation host who previously spent nearly a decade as a Fox News regular. Pavlich, 37, has remained closely aligned with Trump-era messaging and wrote an October piece for Townhall titled “Trump’s Brilliant Iran Play.”

Officials also mentioned several other high-profile figures as possibilities, including Trump’s former senior advisor Kellyanne Conway, Fox News host Laura Ingraham, Chief of U.S. Protocol Monica Crowley, and political activist and former college athlete Riley Gaines, as per a report by The Mirror.

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Social media advisor Margo Martin was also highlighted. One official noted, “She's been there since day one. The world knows who she is.”

What happens next?

While no official decision has been made, the discussions underline how central Leavitt has become to the administration’s messaging. Any temporary replacement would likely be expected to maintain her combative, media-savvy style during her absence.

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FAQs

Is Karoline Leavitt leaving her role permanently?
No. A senior White House official confirmed she plans to continue in the job.

Who is the top reported replacement during her leave?
Tricia McLaughlin is widely seen as the leading temporary option.