Trump names Karoline Leavitt as White House press secretary, she becomes youngest-ever to take charge of post

United States (US) President-elect Donald Trump on Friday (Nov 15) named Karoline Leavitt as the White House secretary. Leavitt, 27, will be the youngest person ever to take charge of this post.

Previously that distinction went to Ronald Ziegler, who was 29 when he took the position in 1969 in Richard Nixon’s administration. Earlier, Leavitt had served as Trump's campaign press secretary.

In a statement, Trump said, "Karoline Leavitt did a phenomenal job as the National Press Secretary on my Historic Campaign, and I am pleased to announce she will serve as White House Press Secretary.”

“Karoline is smart, tough, and has proven to be a highly effective communicator. I have the utmost confidence she will excel at the podium, and help deliver our message to the American People as we Make America Great Again (MAGA),” he added.

Who is Karoline Leavitt?

Leavitt was born in Atkinson on August 24, 1997. She pursued her college education at Saint Anselm College, graduating with a bachelor's in communications and political science.

A report by the news agency Associated Press said that Leavitt is seen as a staunch and camera-ready advocate for Trump who is quick on her feet and delivers aggressive defences of the Republican in television interviews.

The 27-year-old worked as a spokesperson for MAGA Inc, a super PAC supporting Trump before joining his 2024 presidential election campaign.

The Associated Press report said that in 2022, Leavitt ran for Congress in New Hampshire, winning a 10-way Republican primary before losing to incumbent Democratic Rep. Chris Pappas.

During Trump’s first term in office from 2017 to 2021, Leavitt worked in the White House press office. She then became communications director for New York Republican Rep. Elise Stefanik.

(With inputs from agencies)