Speculation about who will lead the White House press briefing room during President-elect Donald Trump’s second administration took an interesting turn early Wednesday, as Alina Habba, a Trump adviser and attorney, addressed rumors surrounding her potential candidacy for the role of press secretary.
The speculation gained momentum following an Axios report, Scoop: Trump Expected to Shake Up White House Briefing Room, which highlighted a competitive race for the prestigious position. Among the names being considered were Karoline Leavitt, the Trump campaign’s national press secretary; Monica Crowley, a former Trump administration official; and Habba, whose passionate defense of Trump in his legal battles has made her a prominent figure in MAGA circles.
Habba addressed the rumors in a tweet, playfully rejecting the possibility of her stepping into the press secretary’s shoes. “While I am flattered by the support and speculation, the role of Press Secretary is not a role I am considering,” she wrote. “Although I love screaming from a podium, I will be better served in other capacities.” She punctuated the tweet with praise for the incoming administration, calling it “epic” and expressing pride in the Trump team.
While I am flattered by the support and speculation, the role of Press Secretary is not a role I am considering. Although I love screaming from a podium I will be better served in other capacities.
This adminstration is going to be epic! So proud of the Trump team, the latest…
— Alina Habba (@AlinaHabba) November 14, 2024
Habba’s playful denial hasn’t entirely dampened speculation, as her charismatic and assertive media presence could fit with Trump’s vision of reshaping the White House briefing room. However, her statement hints that she might still play a key role in another capacity within the administration. The role of White House press secretary has long been one of the most visible positions in any administration, demanding a delicate balance of communication skills, media relations, and the ability to manage the often tense relationship between the press and the presidency. For Trump’s next term, the position could be even more high-stakes, considering his fraught relationship with the media and his promises to “drain the swamp” in Washington.
Trump loyalists Leavitt and Crowley are viewed as strong contenders for the role. Leavitt, who became the youngest-ever White House deputy press secretary under Trump, has demonstrated her ability to stay on message under pressure. Crowley, a seasoned conservative commentator, offers gravitas and a deep understanding of both the Trump agenda and the Washington media environment.
Sources also told Axios that Sage Steele, who moved from ESPN host to influencer, along with CNN analyst and Bush administration veteran Scott Jennings, and Elizabeth Pipko, a model turned RNC spokesperson, are among the contenders for the position. Additionally, Steven Cheung and Danielle Alvarez, both former members of the Trump campaign’s communications team, are vying for the role of White House communications director.
Disclaimer: This article may contain commentary which reflects the author’s opinion.