Trump Appoints Karoline Leavitt as White House Press Secretary
In a significant announcement on November 15, President-elect Donald Trump revealed that Karoline Leavitt, 27, will serve as the new White House Press Secretary starting January 20. This appointment makes Leavitt the youngest individual to hold this position in U.S. history. Trump praised her previous performance as National Press Secretary during his campaign, stating, "Karoline is smart, strong, and has proven to be a highly effective communicator. I have every confidence that she will excel at the podium and help carry our message to the American people as we work to Make America Great Again."
Leavitt, who hails from Atkinson, New Hampshire, has a background in political communications, having worked as a communications director for Republican Rep. Elise Stefanik and as a spokesperson for the political action committee MAGA Inc. She also ran for Congress in 2022, winning the Republican primary at just 25 years old, but ultimately lost to Democratic Rep. Chris Pappas. Her appointment comes at a time when Trump seeks to establish a strong communication strategy for his administration, following a tumultuous relationship with previous press secretaries during his first term.
Background and Experience
Before her role in Trump's campaign, Leavitt gained experience in the White House press office during Trump's first term. Her appointment signifies a shift towards a younger leadership style within the administration. Trump has previously faced challenges with his spokespeople, having had four during his first term, with varying degrees of success in managing press relations. Notably, Sean Spicer's tenure was marked by controversy, while Stephanie Grisham left without holding a single press conference.
Leavitt will be supported by Steven Cheung, who will serve as deputy assistant to the president and communications director. Cheung has also been involved in Trump's campaign and previously held a position in the White House, indicating a continuity in Trump's communication strategy.
Doug Burgum Appointed as Secretary of the Interior
In addition to Leavitt's appointment, Trump announced the selection of Doug Burgum, the 68-year-old governor of North Dakota, as Secretary of the Interior and chairman of a new National Energy Council. This council aims to streamline energy production across various sectors, focusing on reducing bureaucracy and promoting private sector investment. Trump emphasized the need to enhance fossil fuel production, stating, "We are going to DRILL, DRILL, DRILL, expanding ALL forms of energy production to grow our economy and create good-paying jobs."
Burgum's appointment reflects Trump's commitment to energy independence and economic growth, prioritizing fossil fuel extraction while managing the responsibilities of the Interior Department, which includes conservation efforts and oversight of federally owned lands. This move signals a potential shift in environmental policies under the upcoming administration.
