CNN star is surprise frontrunner to replace Leavitt on Trump’s MAGA frontline

CNN political commentator Scott Jennings has emerged as an early frontrunner to become President Donald Trump’s next White House press secretary, following Karoline Leavitt’s resignation announcement.

Leavitt, who served as Trump’s press secretary, announced her departure at the end of the month to focus on her family. Trump announced the departure on Truth Social, praising Leavitt as “one of the best White House Press Secretaries in the History of the Office.”

Who Is Jennings?

Jennings serves as CNN’s political correspondent and has a history of defending Trump on the network. He previously worked as a special assistant to the president and deputy director of political affairs under George W. Bush administration.

When asked about the potential position during an appearance on CNN’s NewsNight, Jennings deflected by praising Leavitt. “Karoline Leavitt has been maybe the greatest White House press secretary in the last 30 years, at least,” he said.

Other Candidates Under Consideration

Multiple names are being considered to fill the vacancy. Alina Habba, Trump’s former defense attorney who served as a de facto press secretary during Trump’s 2024 New York civil lawsuit, is also being viewed as a strong contender, according to sources.

Other potential candidates include deputy press secretary Anna Kelly, a former Republican National Committee national press secretary, and Katie Miller, wife of deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller. White House communications director Steven Cheung and Matthew Boyle, Washington bureau chief for Breitbart, are also reportedly under consideration.

Long shots for the position include Kari Lake and Roma Daravi, vice president of communications at the Kennedy Center. Betting site Kalshi has also listed Lara Trump, wife of Eric Trump, as a possibility.

What’s Next

Leavitt will remain in her role through the end of the month before transitioning to serve as one of Trump’s outside advisors and an influential voice within the Republican Party, Trump said.

This story has been updated. CNN’s reporting staff contributed to this report.

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